CCTVs to be made mandatory in pharmacies: Centre to introduce stricter legal amendment

NEW DELHI: The central government is all set to make CCTV cameras mandatory in all pharmacies and medical shops across the country. The new move is aimed at preventing the sale of fake and unauthorized medicines and ensuring greater transparency.

The union health ministry has recommended amendments to this effect. The ministry has recommended making the necessary changes to Section 65 of the Drugs Act, 1945. It has also proposed that CCTV cameras be installed in all retail pharmacies and licensed medical shops that sell medicines that can be dispensed only with a doctor's prescription, and that the cameras be ensured to be in proper working condition.

CCTV footage from pharmacies will have to be securely stored for at least three months. The footage is expected to assist officials in investigations if any irregularities occur in the distribution or sale of medicines.

Meantime, wholesale drug dealers, however, have been exempted from the proposed requirement. The rule will be applicable to retail medical shops and pharmacies. According to the Centre, the primary objective is to prevent the direct sale to the public, without a doctor's prescription, of medicines in categories such as Schedule H, H1 and X, which can have serious adverse effects. The government believes the new amendment will also help prevent the misuse of medicines such as cough syrups, particularly those administered to children.

The draft notification was issued after detailed discussions by the drugs consultative committee and the drugs technical advisory board. The Centre has presently invited comments and suggestions from the public and pharmacy organizations. The final notification will be issued after considering the feedback received.