Manohar Kore, Member – Maharashtra State Pharmacy Council
THE Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Konkan Division has cancelled the wholesale drug license of Brisben Pharma Pvt. Ltd., which was operating out of a residential housing society in Dombivli (East) in Thane district of Maharashtra. The action follows a detailed complaint submitted by Dr. Vedprakash Tiwari, Advocate, Bombay High Court, highlighting serious regulatory lapses.
In an official communication dated 6 November 2025, FDA Zone 5 Assistant Commissioner S. A. Kamble informed Dr. Tiwari that the firm had filed an application on 24 October 2025 seeking cancellation of its licence, and the same has now been revoked. The licence had been originally issued under Licence No. MH-TZ5-171053.
The premises in question—Flat No. 10, 2nd Floor, Shree Sankheshwar CHS, Manpada Road, Dombivli (East)—is a purely residential society with no commercial zoning. In his complaint, Advocate Tiwari pointed out that such a licence violates the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, FDA guidelines, and municipal land-use rules governing storage and sale of medicines.
What has further amplified concerns is that Manohar Kore, associated with the firm, is also a member of the Maharashtra State Pharmacy Council. Kore has recently come under scrutiny after allegations emerged that several council members—including him—took funds from the Pharmacy Council for a South Africa tour without government approval.
An inquiry into that matter has already been ordered by the Secretary, Medical Education Department, and is currently pending. This background has raised questions about whether influence or pressure may have played a role in the FDA’s decision to grant a wholesale drug licence in a residential building.
Following persistent complaints, representations, and RTI applications by Dr. Tiwari seeking inspection reports and officer details, the company abruptly requested cancellation of its own licence. While the FDA has acted on the cancellation, it remains unclear whether the department will probe how the licence was sanctioned in violation of zoning and safety norms.
Public health activists and legal professionals say this case highlights the urgent need for greater transparency, accountability, and departmental vigilance in the drug licensing system. Residents have also demanded a full inquiry to prevent similar procedural lapses in the future.