Medical Shops Nationwide Protest Against Online Pharmacy Practices

Retail medical shops in several parts of the country are observing a nationwide shutdown today following a call by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists. The protest is aimed at raising concerns over the growing impact of online medicine sales and the pricing practices adopted by e pharmacy companies.

According to the association, local chemists are facing heavy business losses due to the expansion of online pharmacy platforms. Representatives claim that temporary relaxations introduced during the Covid period are being misused, allowing digital medicine sellers to operate in ways that hurt traditional retail stores. They also alleged that excessive discount offers are creating an uneven market for independent pharmacy owners.

Another major concern raised by the association is the sale of antibiotics and scheduled medicines without proper medical prescriptions. Industry members argue that unrestricted access to such medicines may pose serious risks to public health and are demanding immediate action from the central government through stricter regulations.

Despite the protest, officials have assured that essential healthcare services will continue without interruption. Major chain pharmacies, including outlets attached to government hospitals and private clinics, are functioning normally. Public service medicine centres and round the clock pharmacy facilities are also available so that patients and their families do not face difficulties in accessing urgent medications.