Only Registered Pharmacists Can Dispense Medicines, Violators Face Jail or Rs 1 Lakh Fine: Delhi Pharmacy Council
Delhi Pharmacy Council
New Delhi: In the wake of the ongoing Coldrif cough syrup controversy, the Delhi Pharmacy Council has issued a stringent directive to all pharmacies across the national capital, warning that only registered pharmacists are legally authorised to dispense prescription medicines to the public.
The move follows intensified regulatory scrutiny of pharmacy practices amid reports of unsafe cough syrups and non-compliance with drug distribution norms.
Officials confirmed that inspection teams have begun conducting surprise checks across Delhi to ensure compliance with the directive. Pharmacies found violating the rules face severe action, including suspension or cancellation of registration. “Any violations detected during these inspections will invite stern action,” an official source stated, highlighting that the initiative is part of a broader effort to tighten enforcement following recent lapses in pharmacy supervision.
In its circular to all pharmacy establishments, the Delhi Pharmacy Council reiterated that under Section 42 of the Pharmacy Act, 1948, only registered pharmacists are legally permitted to compound, prepare, mix, or dispense medicines prescribed by a doctor. “No person other than a registered pharmacist is permitted to compound, prepare, mix, or dispense any medicine on prescription,” the notice emphasized, underlining the legal exclusivity of pharmacists in the medicine dispensing process.
The communication also referenced the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2023, which introduced stricter penalties for Pharmacy Act violations. As per the amended provisions, offenders may face imprisonment of up to six months, a fine extending to ₹1 lakh, or both, depending on the severity of the breach. These enhanced penalties aim to ensure that pharmaceutical retail operations remain strictly in the hands of qualified and accountable professionals.
A senior official from the Delhi Pharmacy Council mentioned that the directive aligns with recent guidance from the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI). “The intent is to ensure that medicines are handled only by qualified professionals. This is crucial not only for regulatory compliance but also for patient safety,” the official noted.
The New Indian Express reports that the Council has urged all registered pharmacists and pharmacy owners to strictly adhere to the provisions of the law and take due note of the enhanced penalties. The circular warned that any violation could result in suspension or cancellation of registration, reiterating a zero-tolerance stance against unqualified dispensing.
