Srinagar Police tighten noose on misuse of prescription drugs, inspect chemist shops

Srinagar, April 17: Intensifying its crackdown on the misuse of prescription drugs, Srinagar Police on Friday conducted a series of inspections at chemist shops located in the vicinity of major hospitals across the city. 

The drive is part of the ongoing 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan, a comprehensive campaign aimed at curbing drug abuse and dismantling supply networks.

“Srinagar Police inspects chemist shops near hospitals to check misuse of prescription drugs. Strict action against violators under NDPS Act assured. #NashaMuktJKAbhiyaan

@diprjk @SrinagarPolice @KashmirPolice @JmuKmrPolice @MSJEGOI @AmitShahOffice @PMOIndia,” Nasha Mukt Abiyaan Jammu and Kashmir said in a post on X.

Officials said multiple teams comprising police personnel and drug control authorities carried out surprise checks to verify compliance with regulations governing the sale of scheduled medicines. Particular focus was placed on ensuring that potentially addictive drugs are not dispensed without valid prescriptions and that proper sale records are maintained.

A senior police officer said here that the initiative is not only enforcement-driven but also preventive in nature. “The misuse of prescription drugs has emerged as a serious concern, especially among youth. Through these inspections, we aim to ensure that chemists adhere strictly to the law and do not become inadvertent contributors to substance abuse,” the officer said.

During the inspections, several shops were scrutinized for irregularities such as absence of proper documentation, failure to maintain registers for controlled substances, and suspected over-the-counter sale of prescription-only medicines. Authorities have indicated that notices will be issued in cases where discrepancies were found, and repeat violations will invite stricter penalties.

Another official said that the drive is being conducted in coordination with the Drug Control Department to ensure a multi-pronged approach. “This is a joint effort. While police focus on enforcement and intelligence gathering, drug inspectors are examining licensing conditions and compliance under pharmaceutical regulations,” he said.

Reiterating the administration’s zero-tolerance stance, Srinagar Police warned that any chemist found violating norms will face strict legal action under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. “We are committed to dismantling every link in the chain of drug abuse. Whether it is peddlers or those enabling access to controlled substances unlawfully, no one will be spared,” the officer asserted.

The 100-day Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan has seen a significant escalation in anti-drug operations across Jammu and Kashmir, including arrests of peddlers, awareness campaigns in educational institutions, and community outreach programs. Police officials said public cooperation remains crucial in making the campaign successful.

Citizens have been urged to report any suspicious activity related to drug abuse or illegal sale of medicines. “A drug-free society is a shared responsibility. We appeal to the public, especially parents and educators, to remain vigilant and support this mission,” the official added.