NHRC seeks comments from HP Govt on substandard drugs

New Delhi, June 22 (UNI) Taking suo-motu cognizance of a news report about sale of substandard drugs in Himachal Pradesh, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) today asked the state government for its comments within four weeks on the issue.

The Commission directed that a copy of the news report be sent to the Himachal Pradesh Health Secretary and the Drug Controller and sought the status of action, if any.

After observing the report, the Commission said if it is found to be true, it raises serious issue of violation of right to health--a basic human right.

The report quoted a survey conducted by a voluntary organisation as saying that over 100 brands of substandard drugs are being sold in different markets of Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh.

The report said most of the substandard drugs are being sold at Palampur, Dharamsala, Bhawarna, Nurpur, Nagrota Bagwan, Dehara Gopipur and Kangra on the prescription of medical officers posted in government hospitals.

It said medical officers had tie-ups with various drug companies and prescribed the drugs after getting huge commissions and financial benefits.

Many Chemists in Palampur had said the profit to company on substandard medicines ranged from 200 to 300 per cent and part of it went to the doctors, it added.

The company also rewarded the doctors with cash, costly gifts, foreign tours, jewellery and cars if they fulfilled the targets, the report said.

The report said the companies manufacturing the substandard drugs are located at Mohali, Amritsar, Delhi and other places.

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