Sat May 10 15:09:31 UTC 2025: **Karnataka Chemists Sound Alarm Over Unauthorized Pharmaceutical Distribution**
Bengaluru, Karnataka, May 10, 2025 – The Bangalore District Chemists and Druggists’ Association (BDCDA) has raised concerns about the increasing influx of pharmaceuticals into Karnataka through unauthorized channels, posing significant risks to public health. In a letter to pharmaceutical manufacturers, BDCDA president B. Thirunavukkarasu highlighted the alarming rise of semi-wholesalers, sub-stockists, and third-party agents operating outside official channels, offering deep discounts and engaging in unethical trade practices.
These unauthorized distributors often bypass official company stockists and carrying and forwarding agents (CFAs), leading to concerns about spurious medicines, tax evasion, regulatory non-compliance, and price manipulation. The BDCDA president stated that these practices destabilize the market, endanger public health, and create legal liabilities for all involved.
Mr. Thirunavukkarasu also expressed worry that these unauthorized agents are supplying medicines to quick commerce and e-commerce platforms, potentially exposing consumers to unsafe or counterfeit drugs. He further alleged that some medical representatives might be indirectly facilitating these unauthorized supply chains to meet sales targets.
The BDCDA is urging manufacturers to conduct internal audits, implement digital tracking systems for better product traceability, and take action against stockists enabling unauthorized distribution. The association emphasizes the need for greater accountability throughout the pharmaceutical supply chain, stressing that pharmaceuticals are life-saving products requiring the highest level of integrity.
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