Stories
SC Refuses PIL for Time-Bound Probe in Fake Drug Cases, Directs Government Review
- •The Supreme Court declined to hear a PIL seeking a uniform national framework for time-bound investigation and trial in fake and adulterated medicine cases.
- •The bench, comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana, directed the petition to be sent to the government for consideration as a representation.
- •Advocate Ashwini Upadhyay's PIL sought a three-month investigation and one-year trial completion for fake drug cases, along with mandatory videography and forensic examination.
- •The petition also proposed confiscation of properties of fake drug manufacturers under PMLA and other acts, and a graded sentencing policy.
- •The plea highlighted recent incidents of fake cancer drugs and cough syrup deaths, arguing that the existing Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, is inadequate for tackling organized syndicates.
Key Questions Answered
The Supreme Court refused to hear the PIL seeking a uniform national framework to tackle counterfeit and adulterated medicines, directing instead that the petition be sent as a representation to the government for consideration without expressing any opinion on the merits.
The PIL filed by advocate Ashwini Upadhyay sought directions to complete investigations into fake drug cases within three months, trials within one year, conduct time-bound forensic examinations, and ensure mandatory videography of search and seizure proceedings.
The petition sought the assessment and confiscation of properties belonging to fake drug manufacturers, sellers, and financiers under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, the Benami Property Act, and the Black Money Act.