Thiruvananthapuram/Kozhikode: In a serious breach of public health norms, the Drugs Control Department has initiated legal action against an alleged fake doctor, EK Kannan, operating a clinic at Marad, under the Kozhikode Corporation, for dispensing expired medicines — many to palliative care patients.

The action followed a patient complaint, leading to a raid at the Marad Medical Centre, where officials found large quantities of expired modern medicines being stored and sold without valid documentation or drug licences. Kannan, who allegedly lacks formal medical qualifications, was found treating patients using these medicines.

Health Minister Veena George condemned the incident and stressed the grave health risks posed by expired drugs. She urged the public to report such violations to the Drugs Control Department via the toll-free number 1800 425 3182, assuring stringent action against violators. “Inspections will be intensified in the coming days,” she added.

The seized medicines and documents have been submitted to the Kozhikode Judicial First Class Magistrate Court, and a police case has been registered. Drugs Controller K Sujith Kumar has ordered a detailed probe into the source of the expired medicines. The inspection team was led by Assistant Drugs Controller Sudheesh KV, under the supervision of Inspector Shanthi Krishna, with support from Inspectors Noufal CV and Neethu K.