After the incidents related to poisonous cough syrup in some states of the country, confusion is being created regarding cough syrup containing codeine, but the factual side of Uttar Pradesh is absolutely clear and undisputed. Neither has any person died due to cough syrup containing codeine nor is any kind of cough syrup or intoxicant produced in Uttar Pradesh. Despite this, the Uttar Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has launched the most stringent and coordinated action ever against organized networks involved in drug trade through illegal diversion of medicines and sale without prescription. The government’s stand is absolutely clear that cough syrup is a legitimate medicine, but its misuse and illegal sale is a crime.
Legal medicine but misuse of medicine is a crime, direct attack on illegal diversion.
Investigation has revealed the fact that mafia gangs used to collect huge quantities of cough syrup with the help of fake documents and divert it for selling without prescription in the open market for intoxication purposes. The role of super stockist, wholesaler and retailer has come to light in this illegal chain. In some cases, activity of this network has also been found at the interstate level. To break this nexus, the state government formed a special investigation team, conducted raids in several districts simultaneously and strict cases were registered against the culprits under the NDPS Act. Illegal stocks were seized, warehouses were sealed and a thorough investigation of the drug supply system was initiated. Along with this, continuous action is also being taken to stop non-prescription sale of other Schedule H category drugs like sedatives and sleeping pills.
Separate facts from illusion, safety paramount
It is also a well established fact that no child has died in Uttar Pradesh due to cough syrup. The recent case that came to light in Madhya Pradesh was related to fake cough syrup made in Tamil Nadu, which is being investigated by the Central Government and that case is completely different from Uttar Pradesh. The cases the state is taking action on are related to illegal stocking of medicines, illegal diversion and sale without prescription, and not the legality of the medicine. Despite this, some mischievous elements are trying to tarnish the image of the state by spreading misleading information through social media and other mediums.
The objective of the government is clear that medicines should be available to the patients in a legal and safe manner and no illegal drug network should flourish on the soil of Uttar Pradesh. The joint action of the administration and the police at the grassroots level across the state is strengthening this resolve.
