Chemists take part in a nationwide pharmacy strike called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (Aiocd), alleging unregulated practices by online pharmacies, in Nagpur on Wednesday | Photo Credit: ANI

Chemists and druggists observed a one-day token strike against what they called an “uncontrolled online sale of medicines”, and predatory deep discounting practices by these platforms. They also called for the Prime Minister’s intervention to help resolve their long pending complaint involving the online sale of medicines.

Responding to the call from the All India Organisation of Chemists & Druggists (Aiocd) retail chemists and druggists across the country, down to the districts kept their establishments closed and extended unanimous support to the movement, the Aiocd said.

Deep Discounting

In a joint statement, Aiocd President JS Shinde and General Secretary Rajiv Singhal said, that a memorandum addressed to the Prime Minister was submitted through Divisional Commissioners, District Collectors, SDMs (sub-divisional magistrates) and Tehsildars across the country, outlining major concerns of the pharma trade.

The memorandum raised concerns on the home delivery of medicines, that they alleged was being made without valid and verified prescriptions. “Deep discounting by online platforms adversely affecting lakhs of small and licensed chemists,” the association said, calling for the withdrawal of two Government notifications - GSR 817(E) and GSR 220(E), - alleging further that they were being misused by online platforms and quick commerce operators to sell medicines online.

Patient Safety

“The chemist fraternity expressed serious concern that medicines are not ordinary commodities and online sale without proper verification poses a grave threat to public health, patient safety, and the regulatory framework under the Drugs & Cosmetics Act,” the note said. Pointing to their role during the Covid pandemic, the note said, chemists across the nation worked as frontline healthcare support providers and ensured uninterrupted supply of medicines to the public.

“Despite repeated representations and evidence submitted regarding illegal online operations, no effective action has yet been taken by the concerned authorities,” it added.

The nationwide strike remained peaceful and received support from chemists and druggists across India, the note said, adding that essential and emergency medicines were made available to those who needed medicines.

Published on May 20, 2026