India, Jan. 15 -- KANPUR A large quantity of government-supplied medicines, valued at lakhs of rupees, was found dumped and floating in a canal in Jalaun on Thursday, prompting the health department to order an inquiry.

The medicines were spotted early in the morning along the Kadaura minor canal, when residents noticed cartons and strips drifting in the water. On closer inspection, the medicines were found to be marked "not for sale", indicating they were meant for free distribution through government health facilities. None of the medicines appeared to be expired.

As the news spread, a crowd gathered at the spot. Soon after, a doctor from the community health centre, Kadaura, with staff members, reached the canal and attempted to remo...