Shock to the system

It was a court’s order that moved the law-enforcement agencies to arrest the owner of a pharmaceutical company who was involved in the production of unregistered medicines. While it is a positive sign that those who are involved in wrongdoings have been brought to book, it is surprising that the Drug Regulatory Authority (DRA) failed to seal the production unit earlier.

It is the failure of the authorities that were responsible for ensuring that such criminals are apprehended. This hints at the fact that some institutions of this state have deflected from their jobs and responsibilities and have put their vested interests over public interests. The problem lies with the few elements who shamelessly abuse their powers. If the authorities concerned had been performing their roles in an efficient manner, the issues like the production of unregistered medicines and as well as the supply of adulterated milk and contaminated water would not have surfaced. It is the responsibility of the government to provide basic facilities to citizens, which include, but are not limited to, security of life, private property, basic health, education and justice.

Malik Tariq Ali

Lahore