Khordha, Jan 16: In a significant crackdown, the Drugs Squad has unearthed an illegal medicine trade at Banapur market in Khordha, where allopathic, homeopathic, and Ayurvedic medicines were being sold without a valid licence. The illegal operation, which had been running openly for an extended period, was exposed after a thorough raid by authorities late on Thursday night.

Acting on a tip-off, a four-member team from the Drugs Squad, comprising officials from both Khordha and Bhubaneswar, conducted the raid at the market. After nearly six hours of inspection, authorities seized 60 to 65 types of allopathic and homeopathic medicines from the shop, which was operating under the name ‘Arogya Sadan’. The shop had been using flashy signage to attract customers, despite its unlicensed status.

In addition to the raid at the shop, the Drugs Department also searched the owner's residence, where a large quantity of unlicensed medicines and critical documents were recovered. The inspection continued well into the night.

Sudarshan Biswal, Assistant Drug Controller of Khordha, stated, "An illegal medicine business had been running in Banapur, compromising the quality of medicines. During the investigation, it was found that the shop was operating without a valid licence. Despite being labelled as an Ayurvedic Bhavan, it was found to be selling allopathic medicines, which were seized. Strict action will be taken against those responsible for operating without the necessary legal authorisation."

The authorities have confirmed that legal proceedings will follow, with a clear indication of strict measures against the operators involved in this illegal business.