Chandigarh Administration Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Sale and Misuse of Habit-Forming Drugs

Home-cum-Health Secretary Mandip Singh Brar Calls Upon Chemists to Support the Administration’s Mission to Make Chandigarh Completely Drug-Free

Chandigarh, September 14, 2026: As part of the ongoing campaign against drug abuse launched by the Chandigarh Administration under the guidance of the Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, a meeting was held today between the Home-cum-Health Secretary, Shri Mandip Singh Brar, and representatives of the Chemist Association and chemists of Chandigarh.

The meeting focused on preventing the illegal sale and misuse of habit-forming medicines and drugs, disrupting unlawful supply channels and strengthening coordination between the Administration and chemists. The initiative forms part of the Administration’s sustained mission and determined fight against drugs to make Chandigarh completely drug-free.

Addressing the meeting, Shri Mandip Singh Brar emphasised that chemists have a crucial role in preventing the diversion and misuse of habit-forming medicines. He directed all chemists to strictly comply with the applicable laws and maintain proper records for the sale of such medicines.

The Home-cum-Health Secretary called upon chemists to remain vigilant and immediately share any information regarding the illegal sale, supply or misuse of habit-forming medicines and drugs. He assured them that the identity of any person providing such information would be kept strictly confidential.

Shri Brar stressed that collective and coordinated action by the Administration, enforcement agencies, healthcare authorities, chemists and citizens was essential to effectively combat the drug menace. He made it clear that stringent action would be taken, in accordance with the law, against anyone found selling or supplying medicines or drugs in violation of the prescribed rules.

Director Health Services, Chandigarh, Dr. Suman Singh, informed the participants that regular inspections and surprise checks of chemist shops would be conducted. Any violation detected during these inspections would invite strict legal action.

Representatives of the Chemist Association assured the Chandigarh Administration of their full cooperation in this important and ongoing campaign. They reaffirmed their commitment to complying with all legal requirements and supporting the Administration’s determined efforts to eradicate the drug menace and make Chandigarh completely drug-free.

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Draw of Lots Held for 96 Temporary Green Cracker Licences Across Chandigarh

Chandigarh, September 14, 2026: The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh, today conducted a draw of lots for the issuance of temporary licences for the sale of only CSIR-NEERI-certified green crackers in view of the upcoming Diwali festival. The draw was held at Bal Bhawan, Sector 23, Chandigarh, at 4:00 PM.

A total of 96 stalls have been earmarked at 13 identified sites across the city. These include 15 stalls at Dussehra Ground, Sector 43; 11 at the open ground adjoining the Old Rehri Market, Sector 46; five at the open space in Sector 33-C; five near the temple in Sector 37-C; six in front of Gujarat Bhawan, Sector 24; five at Sabzi Mandi Ground, Sector 29; five at the open ground behind Nanaksar Gurdwara Sahib, Sector 28; five at Dussehra Ground near RBI Colony, Sector 30; 10 at Sabzi Mandi Ground, Ramdarbar; 12 at the open ground near the Fire Station Office, Manimajra; seven at the open Sabzi Mandi Ground near Ryan International Public School, Sector 49; five at Ramleela Ground near the Community Centre, Sector 40; and five at the open ground in Dhanas.

A total of 4,100 applications were received through the online portal for the allotment of these stalls.

Only CSIR-NEERI-certified green crackers will be permitted for sale at the allotted sites, in accordance with environmental norms aimed at reducing air and noise pollution during the festive season.

The Chandigarh Administration has appealed to residents and traders to comply with the prescribed guidelines and purchase or sell only certified green crackers to ensure a safe and eco-friendly Diwali.

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Drug Licences of Ramdarbar Chemist Suspended for Illegal Sale of Pregabalin Capsules

Drugs Control Wing Ensures Compliance with Suspension Order

Chandigarh, September 14, 2026: In line with the Chandigarh Administration’s ongoing campaign to curb drug abuse, and under the guidance of the Chief Secretary, Health Secretary and Director Health Services-cum-Drugs Controller, U.T. Chandigarh, a team of the Drugs Control Wing inspected M/s New Shivam Medicos, Ramdarbar, Phase-II, Chandigarh, to verify compliance with the suspension order issued against the firm.

The inspection team comprised Mr. Tajinder Singh, Drugs Inspector, and Mr. Amit Lakhanpal, Drugs Inspector, Chandigarh Administration.

During an earlier inspection conducted on June 29, 2026, the firm was found selling Pregabalin-300 capsules without a valid prescription and without maintaining the required purchase and sale records. As this drug formulation is reportedly being misused by some youth for intoxication, the Drugs Controller, U.T. Chandigarh, suspended the drug licences of the firm for two weeks.

During the latest visit, the inspection team verified compliance with the suspension order and ensured that the shop premises remained closed.

The Chandigarh Administration has reiterated that strict action will continue to be taken, in accordance with the law, against any violation involving the illegal sale or misuse of habit-forming medicines.