Ex-Gujarat Pharmacy Student Leader Backs Due Process in PCI Probe

Ahmedabad, Gujarat — Following the high-profile CBI raid on Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) President Montu Patel, voices from the pharmacist community have begun emerging in response—calling for restraint, reflection, and trust in the legal process.

One such strong voice is Mehul Panchal, former President of the Gujarat Pharmacist Association (Student Committee) and a well-known advocate for pharmacy reform and social causes. Speaking on behalf of student pharmacists and young professionals, Panchal offered a nuanced perspective that balances respect for institutional contributions with a call for accountability.

“While the investigation is ongoing, it’s important to acknowledge the undeniable work Montu Patel has done in modernizing pharmacy education and giving students and practitioners a voice,” Panchal said.

Under Patel’s leadership, the Pharmacy Council of India introduced several reforms—from digitizing licensure processes to aligning pharmacy curricula with international standards. According to Panchal, these efforts marked a shift toward more inclusive and progressive regulation in the pharmaceutical sector.

“Change is never easy. Many of Patel’s reforms were bold and met with resistance, but they signaled a move toward greater transparency and professional dignity for pharmacists,” he noted.

However, Panchal also emphasized that no individual or institution is above scrutiny. He urged the pharmacist community, especially students and educators, to respect the rule of law and trust the due process.

“Investigations like this are part of a healthy democratic system. They ensure accountability. We must remain calm, impartial, and committed to truth and justice,” he added.

The CBI raid has stirred conversations across pharmacy institutions in India, many of which have worked closely with PCI under Patel’s tenure. While the allegations pertain to irregularities in college recognition, Panchal made it clear that this moment should not tarnish the collective credibility of India’s pharmacy profession.

“Our solidarity is with ethical leadership, and with the students and professionals who strive daily to strengthen India’s healthcare system. This is a time to unite around the values of fairness, reform, and service,” Panchal stated.