The Drugs Control Department of Karnataka has prohibited all pharmaceutical and medical stores from selling these to anyone aged below 18.
Few month back, condoms were found in the bags of students at schools. (Creative Commons)
There was a widespread furore in Karnataka on Thursday, 19 January, as local reports claimed that the state, a day earlier, issued a circular prohibiting all pharmaceutical and medical stores in the state from selling condoms, oral contraceptives, and antidepressants to individuals below the age of 18.
However, the Drugs Controller of Karnataka Bhagoji T Khanapure confirmed to South First on Thursday that these reports were incorrect.
He said over the phone: “We received a circular from the Women and Child Welfare Department from the Union government asking to create awareness amongst teenagers. The media report has wrongly reported it [sic].”
Khanapure explained: “We have asked pharmacists and drug stores to create awareness amongst minors who are coming to purchase condoms and oral contraceptives. We will release a complete statement regarding this on Friday.”
Earlier, the Bangalore Mirror quoted that Khanapure as saying: “Technically, the government is promoting condoms to prevent sexually transmitted diseases and also for population control. However, it is not for teens or school kids. Hence, the circular strictly says that medicines should not be sold to underage teens.”
Earlier on Thursday, however, he told South First: “I am discussing with the government now and I am not in a position to tell you any details.”
To curb the rising incidence of students carrying mobile phones to school Associated Managements of Primary and Secondary Schools in Karnataka (KAMS) orders random checking of bags of students in Classes 8, 9 and 10.
During the checking, items like condoms, cigarettes, lighters, and contraceptive pills were found.
Paint thinners, which are easily available for substance abuse, were also found in the possessions of a few.
Following this, the Drug Control Department received many petitions for necessary action in the matter.
Condoms and contraceptives are birth control methods primarily used to prevent pregnancy.
Condoms also help in the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
They are, in fact, one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of STIs such as HIV, herpes, and chlamydia, as they prevent the exchange of bodily fluids.
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