All Registered Pharmacies-Compliance with Delhi Ph_251015_114051
New Delhi: In the aftermath of the Coldrif cough syrup controversy, which has raised alarms over the distribution of substandard medicines, the Delhi Pharmacy Council (DPC) has issued strict instructions to pharmacies across the national capital, requiring that only registered pharmacists be allowed to dispense prescription drugs.
The development comes as regulatory agencies intensify oversight of pharmaceutical retail outlets, following reports of violations linked to the sale of contaminated medications. The government has already prohibited the sale of the Coldrif syrup, which was found to be tainted and allegedly caused the deaths of more than a dozen children in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
In a move to ensure tighter compliance, inspection teams have begun conducting surprise audits in multiple districts of the National Capital Territory (NCT). “Strict action will be taken against pharmacies found violating the directive, including possible suspension or revocation of their operating licences,” a senior official said, requesting anonymity.
The DPC’s directive, circulated officially to all licensed pharmacies, reaffirms the legal mandate under Section 42 of the Pharmacy Act, 1948, which prohibits any individual other than a registered pharmacist from compounding, preparing, or dispensing prescription drugs.
“No person other than a Registered Pharmacist is permitted to compound, prepare, mix, or dispense any medicine on prescription,” the Council reiterated in its circular, warning of legal action in case of non-compliance.
The directive has prompted pharmacy associations to issue advisories to their members. Sandeep Nangia, President of the Retail Drug Chemist Alliance, confirmed that the organisation has asked all affiliated chemists and druggists to ensure immediate adherence to the Council’s order.
“We have urged all our members in Delhi to follow the directive strictly. Every pharmacy must have a registered pharmacist present during business hours,” he said.
Nangia also highlighted that the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, has introduced harsher penalties for violations of the Pharmacy Act.
“Now, breaches can lead to imprisonment for up to six months, or fines up to Rs1,00,000—or both,” he added.
The stricter enforcement measures come amid widespread concern following the Coldrif incident, which has brought renewed focus on regulatory gaps in the drug distribution system. Initial findings suggest multiple levels of oversight failure, prompting calls for better monitoring and accountability in pharmaceutical sales.
