Action initiated against shops for selling sanitisers above MRP: Govt

Regarding the quantity of production of sanitisers, the secretary said that licensed manufacturers can produce any volume needed for the market supply. Further, the Drug Control Administration has issued permission to 30 manufacturers to produce hand sanitisers in 200 brands, the official added.

Responding to a PIL filed by one G Rajesh, the secretary submitted before a division bench comprising Justice MM Sundresh and Justice Krishnan Ramasamy that on March 15, a case of selling hand sanitiser has been noticed and legal action has been initiated against a retail shop in Namakkal under section 7 of Essential Commodities Act, 1955. In all, the government has so far taken legal action against 32 persons for hoarding the essential items.

Her other submissions to the court included the production of hand sanitisers with World Health Organisation approved formulations at all medical college hospitals for their local use. Additionally, private industrial establishments have also been asked to initiate large-scale production of hand sanitisers, she said. As the Union government included masks and hand sanitisers under Essential Commodities Act, the consumer could lodge complaints about the sale of drugs above MRP at the 104 helpline number of the Health department, Beela Rajesh added.

If any persons found there was a shortage supply of any drug, she/he could call any number which is available on Drugs Control website (drugscontrol.tn.gov.in) and the official from the department would ensure the supply of the drug to the consumer at the earliest possible, the official added.

However, the bench directed the Health department to make sure that masks and gloves reach the doctors and staff working in various places across the State within a reasonable time.Disposing of the plea, the court recorded its appreciation for the tireless service rendered by all those who are working with the State Health department. “We would only expect the State government to expedite the process and keep monitoring the situation,” the bench added.