Court Seeks Recommendations on Gifts, Hospitality to Doctors by Pharma Firms

The Supreme Court, hearing a public interest petition that challenges unethical ties between drug manufacturers and medical practitioners, ordered the central government to set up a panel that will explore the necessity of a legal framework governing such interactions. The petition highlighted that doctors often receive gifts, entertainment, and travel perks from pharmaceutical companies, creating a conflict of interest.

During the proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta briefed the judges that the government will appoint a three‑member committee to assess whether existing regulations are sufficient or if new statutes are required. The committee will also evaluate feedback from stakeholders and present its findings to the Ministry of Health.

The issue is part of a larger debate on drug price controls, the availability of generic alternatives, and the overall transparency of the healthcare ecosystem. The Supreme Court has previously questioned why a drug with an MRP of ₹27,000 is being sold to retailers at a price close to ₹3,000, describing the ten‑fold difference as a form of robbery.