The Odisha Drugs Control Department has launched a crackdown on the illegal sale of abortion kits in the Nayapalli area of Bhubaneswar.
Acting on reports of unauthorised sales, officials raided a medicine store allegedly selling abortion kits without mandatory prescriptions.
A three-member team conducted the raid and recovered multiple abortion kits, including misoprostol, a drug known for its severe side effects if used without medical supervision. Officials warned that misuse of the medication could lead to excessive bleeding, infertility, and other health complications.
An official from the department emphasised, “Misoprostol should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision. Selling it without a prescription is illegal and poses serious health risks.”
Authorities are now investigating multiple shops suspected of selling the kits. While the store involved in Monday’s raid has not been sealed, a final decision will be made after further examination. Shops found violating regulations may face suspension of their business licenses.
Responding to the allegations, the shopkeeper stated, “We were selling these medications earlier to those requesting them, but we have stopped now.”
The crackdown is part of a wider initiative to prevent unauthorised drug sales and ensure public safety. The department has urged citizens to purchase medications only from licensed pharmacies and with proper medical prescriptions.
