Karnataka is planning to push for stronger regulation of online medicine sales following alleged violations of food and drug safety norms at e-commerce warehouses in the state, Health and Family Welfare Minister UT Khader says.

Khader said the state government had identified several instances where e-commerce platforms allegedly violated provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, as well as regulations governing the storage and handling of medicines and food products.

According to the minister, the government is concerned about the manner in which medicines and other health-related products are stored, handled and delivered through online platforms.

The rapid expansion of e-commerce-based healthcare services has increased the need for stronger oversight to ensure that products reaching consumers meet prescribed safety and quality standards.

Khader said Karnataka would seek stricter regulatory measures to address gaps in the existing system and ensure greater accountability among online medicine sellers and e-commerce operators. The proposed measures are expected to focus on warehouse operations, storage conditions, licensing requirements and compliance with food and drug safety regulations.

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The move comes amid growing concerns over the increasing sale of medicines through online platforms, which has made access to healthcare products more convenient but has also raised questions around regulatory compliance and consumer safety.

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The minister indicated that the state would work with relevant authorities to strengthen monitoring mechanisms and take action against violations. The government is also expected to examine how existing regulations can be effectively applied to digital and e-commerce-based medicine sales.

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Karnataka's proposed regulatory push could have wider implications for online pharmacies and e-commerce companies operating in the state, particularly as policymakers seek to balance easier consumer access to medicines with stricter standards for safety, quality and accountability.