Global counterfeiting specialist Dr. Avi Chaudhuri has asked the Indian government to instantly cancel the current QR code-based verification process for drugs, stating it is now a counterfeiters' ally rather than a consumer safety measure. He demanded something more secure and economical that allows patients to access genuine drug details without becoming victims of fake packaging.

Key Highlights:

QR Codes Being Misused by Counterfeiters

• The 2D QR code system, under the National Consumer Engagement Programme (NCEP), was to make drug traceability and authentication possible.

• Fraudsters, however, are now copying these QR codes on packs of fake medicines, fooling consumers into thinking they've bought authentic drugs.

• "The QR code, which arrived as an anti-counterfeiting measure, has become a complete debacle," stated Dr. Chaudhuri.

Calls for Urgent Government Action

• Dr. Chaudhuri advises cancelling the QR code system forthwith and issuing public notices to distributors, retailers, and consumers against the use of QR codes.

• He also proposes implementing a safer, tamper-proof verification system that is less expensive than the existing QR printing solution.

Effect on Retailers and Consumers

• The existing system is endangering retailers, as they are being held responsible for negative consequences arising from spurious drugs with copied QR codes.

• Dr. Chaudhuri stressed that deeply discounted medicines retailed far below MRP should raise alarms with consumers, as they may be expired or even fake.

Failure in Interstate Monitoring and Regulatory Oversight

• Since the smooth interstate transportation has been made possible through GST, drug control agencies find it difficult to prevent the sale of spurious medicines across states.

• Dr. Chaudhuri noted that existing regulatory instruments have been misused, paving the way for the operation of fake networks.

Call to Industry Associations

• Dr. Chaudhuri called upon BCDA and its national affiliate AIOCD to put pressure on the Health Ministry to alert the public and officially withdraw the tainted QR system.

• He also pointed out that the counterfeiters are not only targeting small-scale firms, but also popular, branded products.

Statements by Leaders or Officials
"Consumers are being assured they've bought authentic medicine, but when they check the code, they're confronted with a counterfeit product and a replicated QR code. They are at their mercy, and the guarantee was bogus."
— Dr. Avi Chaudhuri, Anti-Counterfeiting Global Expert
"Retailers are held responsible for the result, but the issue is with the system that was supposed to safeguard them. This requires immediate rectification."
— Dr. Chaudhuri, based in KolkataAs India grapples with rising reports of counterfeit medicines, particularly in West Bengal, Dr. Chaudhuri’s warning underscores the urgent need for a national rethink of drug authentication protocols. With the current QR code system now compromised, relying on it further risks consumer trust and public health. Industry leaders, regulators, and the central government must collaborate to implement a next-generation anti-counterfeit tool before the situation worsens.