Union Health Ministry acts against spurious drugs – major seizure in Kolkata

Spurious drugs worth ₹6.60 Crore seized in Kolkata, investigation ongoing by CDSCO and Drugs Control Directorate.

A large quantity of anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and other drugs suspected to be spurious have been seized from Kolkata. The total market value of the drugs seized is estimated at approximately ₹6.60 Crore.

This is following a joint investigation conducted by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), East Zone, and the Drugs Control Directorate, West Bengal, at a wholesale premises in Kolkata. The raid was carried out at M/s Care and Cure For You in Kolkata, according to the release issued by the Health Ministry on Tuesday (December 31, 2024).

“The drugs, labelled as being manufactured in various countries including Ireland, Turkey, USA, and Bangladesh, were found without any supporting documents to prove their legitimate importation into India. In the absence of such documentation, these drugs are deemed to be spurious. The investigating team also discovered several empty packing materials, further raising concerns over the authenticity of the seized products,” noted the release.

The Ministry noted that to ensure proper investigation, samples of the drugs have been sent for quality testing. The remaining seized quantity is being kept in safe custody by the CDSCO.

Meanwhile, the investigation has led to the arrest of the accused, a woman identified as the proprietor of the wholesale firm, who was taken into custody by the Drugs Inspector of CDSCO, East Zone.

“The court has granted judicial custody of the accused for 14 days and permitted further interrogation. Further investigation into the matter is ongoing,” said the release.