Government Forms Probe Committee Over Alleged Irregularities in Drug Pricing

Kathmandu. The government has formed an investigation committee following complaints regarding irregularities in the drug pricing process. The Ministry of Health and Population has established a three-member committee led by Additional Health Secretary Dr. Shreekrishna Shrestha.

According to the Ministry, the investigation was initiated after a letter from the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers dated Chaitra 26, which reported that the Director General of the Department of Drug Administration had increased drug prices without following the procedures mandated by prevailing laws.

The Ministry stated that the committee will conduct a detailed study on the established drug pricing process, whether those procedures were followed, and identify those involved if any irregularities in pricing are found.

The committee has been directed to investigate all aspects and submit a report within seven days. The committee was formed following a ministerial-level decision on Friday.

The members of the committee include Gopi Krishna Regmi (Head, Legal Division) and Kavin Maleku (Subject Expert, Rupandehi).

The Ministry noted that the committee is authorized to invite other experts and staff if necessary.