COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Medical and Civil Rights Professional Association alleges that an attempt is being made to procure multiple medicines from India, without obtaining clearance from the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA).The MCPA wants the President to call for a special investigation into the matter.Why is Sri Lanka opting to an emergency purchase of medicines?Due to the foreign exchange crisis the government is facing an issue in importing medicines to the country by following the proper procurement process, and to avoid any shortage.As a solution to the crisis, Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella on the 25th of October produced a cabinet memorandum to the cabinet of ministers for the emergency purchasing of medicines.It noted that Savorite Pharmaceutical Pvt.
Ltd. located in Gujarat, India had agreed to provide a three month supply of medicines to Sri Lanka within 45 days.Accordingly, plans were drawn to import medical supplies approved by the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation using the remaining funds from the Indian Line of Credit, and other funds available to the country.The cabinet memorandum had sought permission to allow Savorite Pharmaceutical Pvt.