Karnataka Raids: Expired Medicines, Price Gouging Under Scrutiny

Health Minister UT Khader announced that extensive food safety raids are currently underway across Karnataka. These inspections are also extending to medicine safety, following numerous complaints received about expired medicines, mislabeling, and sale of drugs at inflated prices by a few companies. Officials have already conducted raids and imposed fines based on these reports.

To enhance public participation, a QR code-based system has been introduced, enabling citizens to easily file complaints concerning food and medicine safety. Minister Khader emphasized the seriousness of these issues, particularly concerning public health, and indicated that he would meet with officials to discuss these matters further.

Regarding the mass resignation of employees from the 108 ambulance service, Minister Khader issued a warning. He stated that while the staff are considered "brothers," patient well-being takes precedence. Strict action will be enforced if the strike jeopardizes patient care, even though the state government does not directly operate the ambulance service.

Khader clarified that the companies managing the 108 ambulance service are responsible for employee hiring, training, and hygiene. He advised drivers to negotiate with their respective companies for salary issues. The minister assured that if the managing companies cannot handle their employees, new tenders will be initiated. Protests inconveniencing patients will lead to strict action against the service management at that time.