In a major anti-corruption operation, the Ujjain Lokayukta arrested a Drug Inspector, Jai Prakash Kumhar, in Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh, while accepting a ₹26,000 bribe to process a medical store license. The incident highlights growing concerns about corruption in regulatory processes within the pharmaceutical sector.
The Case Unveiled
The complainant, Lakhan Patidar from Narayangarh Road, Harsol, reported that the Drug Inspector had demanded ₹26,000 for issuing a license for his medical store. Following this, the Lokayukta verified the allegations and laid a trap to catch the accused red-handed.

• How the Bribe Was Collected:

• The Drug Inspector instructed the complainant to meet an intermediary, Manish Chaudhary, the district president of the Medical Association, outside the SP office in Mandsaur. Manish collected the money on behalf of the Drug Inspector, after which the Lokayukta team apprehended him.

Key Developments

1. Arrests Made: Both the Drug Inspector and the intermediary were arrested under the Prevention of Corruption Act.

2. Ongoing Investigation: Authorities have launched a comprehensive inquiry into the matter to uncover any further irregularities.

Why This Matters to Pharmacists

• Integrity in Licensing: This case underscores the importance of addressing corruption to ensure a fair and transparent licensing process for medical store operators.

• Legal Risks: Pharmacists should be aware of their rights and report any instances of bribery or malpractice to authorities to protect their businesses and maintain ethical standards.

Lokayukta’s Statement
DSP Rajesh Pathak, who led the operation, confirmed that the Lokayukta is committed to tackling corruption and will continue to act swiftly on similar complaints.