AIOCD Condemns Illegal Trade of Narcotic Cough Syrups

New Delhi: The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), representing over 1.24 million chemists across India, has issued a strong condemnation of illegal trade involving narcotic cough syrups and other psychotropic medicines.

The organization's latest press release, dated November 12, 2025, reaffirms its commitment to a drug-free India and reinforces ethical accountability within the pharmaceutical sector.

In a statement issued by AIOCD President Mr. J. S. Shinde and General Secretary Mr. Rajiv Singhal, the organization stated that such unethical and criminal acts tarnish the image of the entire fraternity. “AIOCD clearly stands against any individual or entity found involved in such illegal drug trade. Those guilty must face strict legal action without any leniency,” the statement emphasized.

AIOCD has directed all state, district, and local associations to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious activity related to the sale or purchase of narcotic or codeine-based formulations to local police and drug control authorities.

The organization has also advised all chemists and druggists to:

1. Purchase narcotic or codeine-based cough syrups only in limited and legitimate quantities.

2. Maintain accurate and complete records of purchase and sale.

3. Report any unusual bulk demand to concerned authorities.

4. Cooperate transparently with official inspections and record verifications.

Reiterating its support for the Government of India’s campaign “Ek Yudh Nasha Ke Virudh” (A War Against Drugs), AIOCD pledged its full cooperation in protecting India’s youth from drug abuse and in building a healthy, responsible, and drug-free nation.

Furthermore, through earlier notice, the AIOCD stated, "Recently it's observed in news media dealers found involve in illegal trade of narcotic cough syrups or other habit-forming medicines. This tarnishes our reputation, though our mainstream members are not involved in such activities; reports indicate that certain anti-organizational and anti-social elements are involved in such unlawful activities. The police authorities have already initiated legal proceedings against such persons, and FIRs have been registered in several cases."

The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) strongly condemns and denounces such heinous and unethical acts. The organization firmly believes that anyone found guilty of indulging in or supporting such criminal activities must be strictly punished under the law without any leniency.

In addition to the above, the AIOCD instructed all State, District, and Local Associations to remain vigilant in their respective regions. In case of any information or suspicion regarding such activities, it should be immediately reported to the local police and drug authorities, and full cooperation should be extended in all official investigations.