Drug Inspector Ranjan Kumar Meher raided Krishna Agency, located near the daily market behind Ram Mandir in Bolangir, following allegations of illegal retail sales at a wholesale medicine outlet.
The raid came after the District Druggist and Chemist Association lodged a written complaint, claiming that Krishna Agency was selling medicines in retail despite holding a wholesale licence. Association president Lotus Sadhangi led more than a hundred chemists to the spot during the inspection.
Officials discovered that the agency owner, Ranjan Agrawal, had obtained both wholesale and retail licences. The inspector confirmed that such dual operations at one location violate norms and said a show-cause notice will be issued to the owner.
The association questioned how authorities allowed such irregularities and demanded immediate government action. Allegations also resurfaced about substandard and counterfeit medicines being sold at the same outlet in the past. Records show that the owner’s name appeared in a 2007 case related to fake drug operations.
Inspector Meher stated, “We conducted the raid after receiving complaints. Krishna Agency holds both wholesale and retail licences. We will issue a notice to the owner regarding irregularities.”
The incident has sparked concern among local chemists, who argue that such practices undermine fair trade and public health. The state government faces calls to take strict measures against violations in the pharmaceutical trade.
