highlights
Karnataka Drug Control Department had directed not to sell condoms and contraceptives to minors
The decision was taken back after controversy arose after media reports.
The circular was reportedly issued after condoms, contraceptives, cigarettes and whitener were found in the bags of school students
Bangalore, The Karnataka Drug Control Department (KDCD) recently issued a circular withdrawing the controversial ban on the sale of contraceptives and condoms to women below the age of 18 years. The ban sparked new debate about the risk of unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The KDCD, however, denied having issued any circular to ban pharmacists from selling condoms, contraceptives and anti-depressants to minors.
It is worth noting that several media reports quoted Bhagoji T Khanpure, the drug controller in-charge of the state, as saying that the state government is promoting condoms to prevent sexually transmitted diseases and for population control. But, it is not for teenagers or school children. According to Bangalore Mirror, Khanapure had categorically stated that a circular had been issued strictly stating that contraceptives should not be sold to underage teenagers. Later Khanpure himself said, ‘We have not issued any circular to this effect. It has been wrongly reported in the media.
Circular was issued after condom was found in school bag
The circular was issued allegedly after condoms, contraceptives, cigarettes and whitener were found in the bags of school students in November last year. In November last year, a surprise inspection to stop students from carrying mobile phones to classes left Bengaluru school authorities shocked and embarrassed. Apart from cell phones, the officers found condoms, oral contraceptives, lighters, cigarettes and whiteners from the bags of Class 8, 9 and 10 students.
Soon after the controversial order was reportedly issued, experts and pharmacists criticized it, saying it would lead to a rise in unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Some also said that the ban could not be effectively enforced, as condoms and contraceptives are available in all stores, not just pharmacies. Some pharmacists also highlighted that it is difficult for them to differentiate between customers who come in plain clothes. When the ban was issued, Khanpure explained that it was not just limited to condoms and contraceptives, but to cigarettes as well.
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Tags: Condom, Karnataka, Pharma units, pregnancy
FIRST PUBLISHED : January 21, 2023, 11:30 IST
