54 pharmacies shut down in Mokokchung

April 8, 2025 18 Views No Comment

Morung Express News
Mokokchung | April 8

In a crackdown on non-compliant pharmacies, the Drugs Control Officer of Mokokchung, with the support of the District Administration, Police, Watsu Mungdang, and Ao Kaketshir Mundang, conducted a three-day enforcement exercise from April 3 to 5, resulting in the closure of 54 pharmacies within Mokokchung Town.

According to a press release issued by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), the action follows a Cancellation Order from the Controlling & Licensing Authority, Drugs Control Administration, under the Department of Health and Family Welfare. The pharmacies were found to be in violation of Rule 65(2) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, and Section 42 of the Pharmacy Act, 1948, primarily for operating without employing Registered Pharmacists.

Speaking to The Morung Express, CMO Mokokchung, Dr Marina Yaden, confirmed that the 54 pharmacies represent the total number of identified defaulters within the urban area of Mokokchung. “Unless we’ve missed out on any, this is the complete count of pharmacies that were not adhering to the requirement of having a Registered Pharmacist,” she stated.

Dr. Yaden emphasised that the closures were carried out in accordance with government directives mandating the presence of Registered Pharmacists in all licensed pharmacies. “Pharmacists are essential because they are professionally trained to understand the nature of medicines, proper dosages, and safe dispensing. Unlike untrained sellers who may provide medicine based on customer demand, pharmacists ensure the right medication and dosage are given to patients,” she explained.

Dr Yaden also pointed out the risks of pharmacies being sold to individuals with no pharmaceutical knowledge. “At the end of the day, it’s the public who suffers. This entire exercise is being carried out in the interest of public safety,” she said.

She further added that under the latest regulations, all pharmacists must be registered online with the required documentation. The government aims to curb the trend of pharmacies being operated or sold to individuals lacking fundamental pharmaceutical knowledge, which she warned, could endanger public health.

Dr Yaden also clarified that the closures are not permanent. “The pharmacies can reopen once all necessary procedures are completed and they meet the eligibility criteria for a valid pharmacy license,” she said.