Dr. Vedprakash Tiwari
THE Maharashtra Lokayukta has taken cognisance of a complaint alleging financial and administrative irregularities in the functioning of the Maharashtra State Pharmacy Council (MSPC). The complaint was filed by Dr. Vedprakash Tiwari on August 18, 2026, and was heard before the Lokayukta Bench on September 7, 2026. The matter has been registered as LOA/A/21/2026 (TE-11).
The complaint raises several allegations concerning the functioning of the Council, including an alleged visit to Cape Town, South Africa, by Nitin Maniyar, Dhananjay Joshi and Manohar Kore without prior approval from the competent authority. The complaint further alleges that approximately ₹4.50 lakh was reimbursed in connection with the visit.
Other issues raised in the complaint include an alleged conflict of interest involving Manohar Kore, the alleged appointment of Pradip Vhatkar without advertisement, and alleged financial interests of MSPC President Atul Ahire in four pharmaceutical establishments.
Lokayukta Order Refers to Payments and FDA Action
The Lokayukta’s order, while referring to the records placed before the Bench, notes that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had taken action against Manohar Kore and his firm, and that the licence of the concerned firm had been cancelled.
The order also records that ₹1.15 lakh each was paid by the department to Nitin Maniyar, Manohar Kore and Dhananjay Joshi.
However, the complaint alleges that approximately ₹4.50 lakh was reimbursed towards the South Africa visit and that the visit was undertaken without the required authorisation. These allegations remain subject to clarification and verification by the concerned authorities.
MSPC Directed to Explain Its Position
The Lokayukta Bench has directed the Maharashtra State Pharmacy Council to submit its explanation regarding the allegations raised in the complaint.
The Secretary of the Medical Education and Drugs Department has also been directed to submit, within seven days, a report on the status of any inquiry ordered in the matter.
The order further directs that, if no inquiry has been initiated, the department should explain the reasons for not initiating one.
Complainant Seeks Transparency and Accountability
Dr. Vedprakash Tiwari has stated that the complaint is aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability and compliance with applicable rules in the functioning of a statutory regulatory body.
The next course of action will depend on the explanation submitted by the MSPC and the inquiry status or report placed before the Lokayukta by the concerned department.
The allegations mentioned in the complaint are subject to verification. The concerned individuals and authorities will have an opportunity to present their respective explanations before any final conclusion is reached.