Odisha Raids 220 Medicine Shops, Seizes Narcotic Injections Worth ₹10 Lakh in Kendrapara
Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has intensified its statewide crackdown on the illegal sale and misuse of prescription and psychotropic medicines, conducting raids on 220 medicine outlets across the state as part of an ongoing anti-drug enforcement drive.
According to official sources, joint teams comprising police personnel and officials from the Drugs Control Administration carried out inspections to verify the lawful procurement and sale of regulated medicines, including psychotropic drugs such as Pentazocine, Tramadol, Alprazolam, and Nitrazepam.
During the enforcement operation, authorities reportedly initiated action against 137 medicine establishments for alleged violations of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and related regulatory provisions.
A major seizure was made in Kendrapara district, where officials confiscated 1,100 ampoules of Pentazocine injections along with medicines and related medical equipment collectively valued at around ₹10 lakh.
The seizure is being viewed as a significant breakthrough in efforts to curb the diversion and misuse of narcotic and psychotropic substances.
The crackdown also extended to Astaranga in Puri district, Jonk in Nuapada district, and parts of Deogarh, where medicines worth approximately ₹2 lakh were seized from establishments allegedly operating without proper authorisation.
Officials said cases have been registered against those found violating drug regulations.
Assistant Drugs Controllers and Drug Inspectors are leading the enforcement activities in coordination with local law enforcement agencies.
The state government has reiterated its commitment to preventing the illegal distribution of addictive medicines and curbing substance abuse.
The inspection drive is expected to continue until October 15 as authorities step up surveillance of pharmaceutical distribution channels across Odisha.
