Drug price hike probe launched; DDA Chief dragged Into investigation

KATHMANDU: The Director General of the Department of Drug Administration, Narayan Dhakal, has been drawn into an investigation following allegations of irregular increases in medicine prices.

According to officials, the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers directed the Ministry of Health and Population to conduct a formal probe after receiving a complaint alleging that pharmaceutical prices were raised without following the legally mandated procedures.

The Prime Minister’s Office has instructed the Ministry to complete the investigation and submit a report within seven days.

Following the directive, Director General Dhakal has reportedly been called to the Ministry as part of the inquiry process, sources said.

The complaint submitted to the Prime Minister’s Office claims that medicine prices were increased without adhering to established legal procedures.

The Ministry has been asked to thoroughly examine the pricing mechanism for medicines, determine whether due process was followed, and identify individuals involved if any irregularities are confirmed.

In addition, authorities have been directed to form a three-member investigation committee comprising subject-matter experts to complete the study and submit its findings within a week.