KARACHI, June 7: Sindh Ombudsman Yousuf Jamal has ordered investigation and action against persons involved in trade of spurious drugs and supply of medicines after expiry date.

All the staff of the Ombudsman at Sindh level has been asked to undertake the investigations immediately in compliance of order of a division bench of High Court of Sindh (SHC), comprising Justice Mohammad Mujeebullah Siddiqui and Justice Faisal Arab, in a public interest petition filed by Rafiq Ahmed Abro of Larkana.

The petitioner, moving the court, maintained that lifesaving drugs, physician samples and medicines acquired for use in government hospitals were being sold at medical stores at exorbitant rates besides sale of spurious and sub-standard medicine.

The SHC bench, deciding the petition, held that the SHC could not investigate such issues and the appropriate forum is the institution of Ombudsman as mal-administration by government agencies was the main issue.

The bench referred the petition to provincial ombudsman for conducting a thorough inquiry, investigation and research into the matter and make proper recommendations, assure rectification of maladministration. In case the Ombudsman feels that extra steps are required, he may submit a special report on the case to the governor for appropriate action.

The Ombudsman shall forward the recommendations made by him along with the detailed report to the high court within six months as required, the bench ordered.—APP