TG SAFE suspends 138 medical shops for drug sale violations in Telangana

Hyderabad: The Drugs Wing of the Telangana Standards Authority for Food and Essential Drugs (TG SAFE), in coordination with police enforcement personnel, has initiated stringent action against medical shops in various parts of Telangana for illegal sale and diversion of habit-forming drugs.

Following special enforcement raids conducted on October 15, authorities have issued action orders against 140 medical establishments found violating provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.

According to the official data released by TG SAFE on Tuesday, a total of 138 medical shops have faced suspension. Of these, 98 shops have been ordered suspended indefinitely until further notice, while 40 shops received fixed-term suspensions. Formal warnings were issued to two other establishments.

The regulatory authority has issued a stern warning to chemists and druggists across the State, reiterating that psychotropic and Schedule H/H1 drugs must never be dispensed without a valid prescription from a Registered Medical Practitioner or in the absence of a Registered Pharmacist.

Shops are also mandated to maintain meticulous records of purchases, sales, and stock. TG SAFE cautioned that severe penalties, including license cancellation and criminal prosecution, will be enforced against violators.

The general public can report illegal sales or diversion of habit-forming drugs via the TG SAFE Drugs Wing toll-free number, 1800-599-6969, which is operational on all working days from 10.30 am to 5 pm.