Bengaluru/ Delhi : HL August 20, 2026
The Karnataka government has appealed to citizens to help authorities identify and dismantle networks involved in the manufacture, supply and sale of fake and spurious medicines. Health Minister U.T. Khader announced cash rewards ranging from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 50,000 for credible information that helps uncover such networks.
The appeal comes after authorities seized counterfeit medicines valued at more than 5 crore during an operation in Karnataka’s Ramanagara district. Investigators suspect that the seized medicines, allegedly carrying labels of multinational pharmaceutical companies, could be connected to a wider network operating across multiple states.
Public Asked to Report Suspicious Medicines
The Health Department has asked citizens to share information about suspected fake medicine supply and sales through the 1902 helpline or a QR code provided by the department. Officials said the identities of people providing information would be kept confidential.
Minister Khader said public participation was particularly important because the state’s Health and Food Safety departments have limited manpower compared with Karnataka’s large population. He urged people to remain cautious, especially when expensive medicines are offered at unusually low prices.
Investigation Expands Beyond Karnataka
Additional Drug Controller Dr Umesh S. said the investigation has indicated possible links to Telangana and Himachal Pradesh. Drug control authorities and state licensing agencies across the country have been alerted and asked to inspect pharmacies and verify distributors involved in the sale of high-value medicines.
Officials are also checking purchase records, batch numbers and supply chains to determine whether medicines being distributed through hospitals and medical stores are genuine.
During searches in the Bidadi area, authorities reportedly recovered medicine vials, labels, empty vials and other drugs. Officials are examining the role of individuals and establishments allegedly connected with the operation.
Why Fake Medicines Are a Serious Concern
Counterfeit medicines can pose significant risks to patients because they may contain incorrect, inadequate or no active pharmaceutical ingredients. The concern is particularly serious when such products are intended for critically ill patients or are supplied to hospitals.
The investigation is continuing, while authorities have circulated details of suspected spurious medicines and identified batches to relevant agencies.
The Karnataka government has urged citizens, pharmacists, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and report credible information. Depending on the usefulness of the information provided, informants may receive a reward of 10,000 to 50,000, with confidentiality maintained.
