Sell medicines at new GST rate, below MRP: Drug Control Dept directs distributors, retailers in Srinagar spot checks

Ziraat Times News Desk

Srinagar: The Drug Control Department has launched a drive in Srinagar to ensure strict compliance with revised Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates on medicines, directing wholesalers, retailers, stockists, and distributors to sell medicines at the revised prices and immediately remove discount boards from their shops.

The campaign, led by Assistant Drug Controller (ADC) Srinagar Reena Gazala, began on Tuesday from Maisuma, the hub of drug distribution in the city. Teams of inspectors conducted checks on medical shops and wholesale outlets to verify billing practices and ensure that the benefits of reduced GST rates are passed on to consumers.

Speaking to the media during the inspection, Gazala issued a stern warning against malpractice, stressing that the government had reduced GST on several essential medicines and that patients must not be overcharged.

She said:

“The government has reduced tax rates on a number of essential medicines, but unfortunately, in some places drugs are still being sold at old rates. This is unlawful. It is our responsibility to ensure that patients get the full benefit. We have warned all retailers, stockists, super stockists, and distributors that if anyone continues to sell medicines at old prices despite the new GST rates, strict action will follow. Patients must receive medicines at fair prices, not be made to suffer.”

She added that inspectors would continue surprise market checks in the coming days. “Consumer rights cannot be compromised. Patients should be charged exactly as per the revised GST rates,” she said, noting that the Department’s priority was to protect public interest while holding violators accountable.

Authorities confirmed that non-compliance would invite punitive measures under relevant provisions of drug control and taxation laws.

The move comes amid growing complaints from consumers that despite GST reductions on certain medicines, several outlets in Srinagar continued to sell drugs at older, higher rates.