TNFNew Delhi/TNF
In a recent ruling, the Delhi High Court denied bail to an individual accused of manufacturing and supplying counterfeit cancer medications. The court described the accused as the ringleader of a criminal gang and highlighted the high likelihood of evidence tampering if he were released.
The court’s decision emphasized the serious implications of the alleged actions. It noted that the effectiveness of the injections sold by the accused was significantly low, raising concerns that patients receiving these injections could experience a worsening of their cancer or a recurrence, which could potentially lead to death.
Justice Subramanyam Prasad remarked, “The primary reason for granting bail to other co-accused is that they were merely pawns in this operation, while the petitioner is the leader of the entire gang.”
He pointed out that the counterfeit injections were primarily manufactured and sold by the accused, identified as Vifil Jain, and were found to be of inferior quality, posing serious health risks to patients. The court further stated that Jain, with experience in the pharmacy field, was fully aware of the consequences of his actions. The judge warned that releasing him at this stage could lead to tampering with evidence related to the case.
Jain’s lawyer sought bail on the grounds of equality, arguing that other co-accused had already been granted relief. However, the prosecution maintained that Jain played a central role in the operation.
The case began in March when the Delhi Police’s Crime Branch received information that Jain was procuring empty vials and other raw materials from his associate, Parvez Malik, to produce fake cancer injections. To investigate the alleged drug manufacturing operation, separate teams were formed, and the Delhi government’s drug department was also notified to assist in the operation.
Prosecution reports indicated that Jain and another individual were apprehended while filling empty vials with a liquid substance in a flat located in Motinagar, Delhi. Following this, a First Information Report (FIR) was filed, leading to their arrest.
The court’s firm stance underlines the seriousness of the crime and the potential risks posed to patients relying on effective cancer treatments. The case highlights ongoing concerns about counterfeit medications and the need for strict enforcement against such dangerous practices.
