Police in Baramulla and Kulgam districts on Wednesday intensified enforcement drives to ensure compliance with legal norms, targeting violations related to public health and drug regulations.
In Baramulla, police, in coordination with revenue authorities and the drug inspector, conducted a joint inspection drive across the district. A special drive was carried out within 100 yards of the Government Higher Secondary School Chandoosa, where several shops were inspected.
Police said during the drive, individuals found smoking in the prohibited zone were fined under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). Authorities penalized multiple violators and collected a total fine of ₹1,300 on the spot.
Officials also inspected medical and pharmacy shops to verify valid licenses, stock and sale records, installation of CCTV cameras, and adherence to norms governing controlled substances. Shopkeepers were directed to strictly follow regulations and warned that any violations would invite strict legal action.
Meanwhile, in Kulgam, the police launched a crackdown in the Devsar area against medical shops violating drug control laws. During inspections conducted by police teams from Police Station Devsar, along with the Drug Controller, two medical shops were found to be involved in serious violations related to the maintenance of scheduled/NRX drugs.
The establishments—identified as Irfan Medical Store and Alshafa Medical Store—were sealed on the spot. Police said both shops failed to maintain mandatory records of NRX drugs, violating provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. In addition, two other medical shops were temporarily sealed for failing to install CCTV cameras, raising concerns over monitoring and accountability.
Senior Superintendent of Police Kulgam, Anayat Ali Choudhary, reiterated a zero-tolerance policy towards violations involving controlled substances and warned of strict action against defaulters. He urged medical shop owners to comply with legal provisions, maintain proper documentation, and ensure CCTV installation to prevent misuse of pharmaceutical drugs.
Police said such drives will continue to safeguard public health and ensure accountability.
