Touts rule, bad meds on sale, reveal Delhi raids

Life-saving drugs that need to be stored at low temperatures left out in the open, touts having a free run of transport offices and schools violating guidelines — all this and more was unearthed during raids by the Delhi government officers on Thursday.

Life-saving drugs that need to be stored at low temperatures left out in the open, touts having a free run of transport offices and schools violating guidelines — all this and more was unearthed during raids by the Delhi government officers on Thursday.

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On the directions of the Lieutenant Governor Najeeb Jung, 19 teams of senior officers fanned out in the city, exposing thriving malpractices in transport, food and supplies, education, health and weights and measures departments.

Insulin and tetanus injection were lying in the open as city sizzled at 42.8° Celsius. These and many such drugs have to be stored in cool conditions as heat can adversely hit their efficacy.

Medicine supplies meant for government hospitals were found being sold in the open market. The health department has issued notices to eight wholesalers and sought their response in 24 hours. “Samples of insulin and tetanus injections found in the raid have been seized for investigation,” a Delhi government official said.

At transport offices, touts were found demanding bribe to get licences made. A number of private schools were found violating nursery guidelines. An inspecting team found a prominent bank illegally operating a branch on the premises of a private school.

During the massive drive, teams of food and supplies department inspected 26 so-called fair-price shops that provide ration. Thirteen of these were sealed — for diverting foodgrain or for remaining shut.

A total of 16 petrol pumps were also raided; 13 were dispensing less fuel to the consumers. “We have prosecuted 13 of them under the legal metrology act, 2009,” said the official.

Surprise checks will continue in the coming days.