Court Halts DRAP’s Crackdown on Medical Device Dealers

In a significant legal development, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) has restrained the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) from initiating disciplinary action against medical device dealers across the country.

The court’s decision comes amid growing concerns over DRAP’s enforcement practices, which many in the industry have criticized as lacking transparency and due process. The ruling effectively pauses any punitive measures until further legal review is conducted.

Medical device dealers had approached the IHC, arguing that DRAP’s actions were arbitrary and exceeded its regulatory mandate. They claimed that the authority was penalizing businesses without proper hearings or clear guidelines, creating uncertainty in the healthcare supply chain.

The IHC acknowledged these concerns and emphasized the need for regulatory bodies to operate within the bounds of law. The court directed DRAP to refrain from taking any disciplinary steps until the matter is fully adjudicated.

This ruling is expected to have wide-reaching implications for the medical device sector in Pakistan. Dealers and suppliers have long called for clearer regulations and more consistent enforcement, especially as the industry plays a critical role in supporting hospitals and clinics nationwide.

Legal experts say the case could set a precedent for how regulatory agencies interact with private sector stakeholders. It also highlights the importance of judicial oversight in maintaining balance between enforcement and fairness.

As the legal proceedings continue, stakeholders are hopeful that the outcome will lead to more structured and transparent policies governing medical devices in Pakistan. For now, the IHC’s intervention offers a temporary reprieve and a chance for dialogue between regulators and industry players.