Officials in Hyderabad have traced a network smuggling banned Pakistani cosmetics back to Mumbai's Crawford Market. This supply chain was uncovered after the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) issued a warning about two skin-whitening creams that contain dangerous levels of heavy metals.
Raids on three shops in Hyderabad led to the seizure of products like ‘Goree Beauty Cream’ and ‘Chandni Whitening Cream’. These creams were flagged in a CDSCO alert on September 8, alerting consumers to their health risks. The investigation has now widened to include Mumbai, where these cosmetics are believed to have originated despite a nationwide ban on Pakistani imports since May 2, 2019.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade had banned all Pakistani goods, citing national security concerns. This ban extends even to products rerouted through third countries. Cosmetics entering India must meet the standards set by the Cosmetics Rules, 2020, which require registration with the Central Licensing Authority and adherence to quality and safety protocols.
In July, the CDSCO had already ramped up its efforts, directing its zonal offices and state licensing bodies to scrutinize imported cosmetics lacking valid import registration certificates. This was in response to reports of such products being sold in the local market. The subsequent September warning emphasized the health risks posed by the two creams, which were found to contain heavy metals beyond acceptable limits, posing potential toxicity risks.
The Hyderabad probe revealed another layer of complexity. An ointment from the United Kingdom was reportedly being mixed with these cosmetic products to create skin-lightening preparations. Samples have been sent for forensic testing to determine their makeup and assess potential health hazards. Officials are worried about carcinogenic substances, but the results are still pending.
The raids in Hyderabad, carried out by local police in conjunction with the CDSCO, focused on Beauty Ladies Emporium, Beauty Queen Shop, and S. J. Medical Shop in the Habeeb Nagar and Nampally areas. Authorities confiscated cosmetics worth approximately ₹7 lakh, including several Pakistan-made whitening creams and soaps. Five individuals have been identified in connection with the sale and distribution of these products.
Meanwhile, the connection to Crawford Market in Mumbai isn't isolated. In July, similar enforcement actions in Mumbai led to the seizure of Pakistan-made cosmetics valued at about ₹12 lakh. This points to a larger network facilitating the illegal distribution of these banned products throughout India.
As the investigation progresses, authorities aim to dismantle the supply chain and stop the further distribution of these potentially harmful cosmetics. The results from the forensic tests will be vital in deciding the next steps and ensuring consumer safety.
