High Court Upholds Conviction for Illegal Possession and Sale of Allopathic Medicines
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Shimla, Sept 3 – The Himachal Pradesh High Court has dismissed a revision petition filed by a McLeodganj resident and upheld the lower court’s order of conviction under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
Justice Rakesh Kainthla ruled that medicines stored inside a clinic’s cupboard naturally indicate intent for sale. Since the accused lacked a valid license or certification to stock or sell allopathic drugs, he was found guilty under Section 27B(ii) of the Act.
The court further noted that electropathy and electro-homeopathy have no legal recognition in Himachal Pradesh, making the accused’s defense untenable. Rejecting pleas for leniency, the judge observed that such offenses pose serious threats to public health and require stringent punishment.
The case dates back to June 15, 2001, when Drugs Inspector Navneet Marwah, assisted by the police, raided *Manav Health Clinic* in McLeodganj. A large quantity of allopathic drugs was seized, with the accused unable to produce any license. The trial court sentenced him to one month’s simple imprisonment and a fine of ₹5,000, a decision upheld by the District and Sessions Court, Dharamshala, and now confirmed by the High Court.
