All medical stores in Punjab will remain closed on May 20 as the state's chemists' body has called for a strike to protest against the online sale of medicines. The decision was announced by the Punjab Chemists Association, which represents over 60,000 retail and wholesale drug sellers across the state.
Reasons for the Strike
The chemists are opposing the growing trend of online pharmacies, which they claim operate illegally and without proper licenses. They argue that these platforms violate the Drugs and Cosmetics Act by selling prescription-only medicines without a valid prescription. The association also highlighted concerns about the storage and handling of drugs by online sellers, which could compromise the quality and safety of medicines.
Impact on Patients
The strike is expected to affect patients who rely on regular medication, especially those with chronic conditions. However, the chemists have assured that emergency medical stores and hospitals will remain operational to ensure that critical patients are not inconvenienced. The association has urged the state government to take strict action against illegal online pharmacies and enforce existing regulations.
In a statement, the association said, "We are left with no choice but to go on strike as the government has failed to curb the menace of online medicine sales. These platforms are not only illegal but also pose a serious health risk to the public."
Government Response
The Punjab government has yet to respond officially to the strike call. However, officials have indicated that they are reviewing the matter and may hold talks with the chemists' association to resolve the issue. The state's health department is also likely to issue a directive to ensure that essential medicines remain available during the strike.
This is not the first time that chemists have protested against online medicine sales. Similar strikes have been held in other states, including Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Delhi, where the chemists' associations have demanded a ban on unlicensed online pharmacies.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The online sale of medicines is currently regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, which require all pharmacies to have a valid license and sell medicines only against a prescription. However, enforcement has been weak, leading to the proliferation of illegal online platforms. The central government has proposed amendments to the rules to tighten regulations, but they are yet to be implemented.
The chemists' association has also called for a nationwide protest on May 20, with similar strikes expected in other states. The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) has extended its support to the Punjab chemists and has urged the central government to take immediate action.
Patients are advised to stock up on essential medicines before May 20 to avoid any inconvenience. The chemists have said that the strike will be withdrawn only if the government takes concrete steps to stop the online sale of medicines.
