NHRC calls for strong action against spurious medicines; experts push for structural reforms

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, has sounded a strong warning over the growing menace of spurious and substandard medicines, stating that the issue directly impacts citizens’ fundamental right to life and health. The Commission organised an Open House Discussion in New Delhi on the theme “Measures to Curb Spurious Medicines in India,” bringing together regulators, law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and pharmaceutical stakeholders.

Chairing the session, NHRC Member Justice (Dr.) Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi cautioned that even isolated regulatory lapses in a country as large as India can escalate into large-scale human distress if not addressed decisively. He stressed the urgent need for coordinated and systematic action.

NHRC Member Vijaya Bharathi Sayani underscored the human cost of poor-quality medicines, urging stronger oversight and accountability mechanisms within the pharmaceutical ecosystem.

Secretary General Bharat Lal clarified that while spurious and substandard drugs differ in definition, both pose serious risks and require coordinated institutional intervention.

Key Suggestions Emerging from the Discussion

Participants across sectors put forward several concrete recommendations to curb the menace:

1. Creation of a Centralised National Database

Establish a comprehensive, centralised databank on spurious and substandard medicines.

Integrate inputs from enforcement agencies, regulators and state authorities.

Enable real-time tracking and coordinated response.

2. Special Drug Courts

Set up dedicated drug courts to ensure expeditious trials of offenders.

Strengthen deterrence through faster conviction and stricter enforcement.

3. Real-Time Drug Testing Mechanisms

Deploy rapid and real-time drug testing systems to detect counterfeit or substandard medicines at early stages.

4. Track-and-Trace Technology

Make QR codes mandatory on pharmaceutical products.

Implement track-and-trace systems, including blockchain-based supply chain authentication, to ensure end-to-end transparency.

5. Strengthening Laboratory Systems

Ensure compulsory testing through NABL-accredited laboratories to maintain high-quality standards.

6. Use of Artificial Intelligence

Deploy AI-based anomaly detection systems to identify suspicious distribution patterns and irregular supply chains.

7. Surprise Inspections & Enforcement

Increase random and surprise inspections across manufacturing and distribution units.

Strengthen regulatory vigilance at all levels.

8. Whistle-Blower Protection

Introduce robust whistle-blower protection mechanisms to encourage reporting of malpractices without fear.

9. Digital Case Tracking

Develop digital case-tracking systems to monitor investigations and prosecutions efficiently.

10. Improved Public Grievance Mechanisms

Strengthen public helplines and complaint redressal systems for reporting suspicious medicines.

11. Regulatory Safeguards for E-Prescriptions

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Review and reinforce safeguards around e-prescriptions to prevent misuse and illegal distribution.

The discussion concluded with a strong consensus that combating spurious medicines is not merely a regulatory challenge but a human rights imperative. Participants emphasised that a technology-driven, transparent, and accountable pharmaceutical ecosystem is essential to protect citizens and uphold public health standards across the country.