Delhi Chemist Strike Disrupts Medicine Supply Amid Protest Against E-Pharmacies

The bandh was called by pharmacy associations to oppose the continued growth of online pharmacies and large corporate chains, which they claim are adversely affecting small and independent chemists. The protesting pharmacists also raised concerns over doorstep delivery of medicines and alleged violation of drug sale regulations.

Patients and attendants visiting hospitals and local markets reportedly faced inconvenience due to closure of several medicine shops in multiple areas of the national capital. Many people were seen moving from one locality to another in search of open pharmacies to purchase essential medicines.

According to reports, while many standalone retail chemists participated in the strike, several hospital pharmacies, chain medical stores and emergency medicine outlets remained operational to avoid disruption in critical healthcare services.

Pharmacy associations participating in the bandh stated that online medicine sales and heavy discounting practices were impacting the livelihood of traditional chemists and creating unfair competition in the sector. They also demanded stricter implementation of regulations governing e-pharmacies and online drug delivery platforms.

Some pharmacists said repeated representations had already been submitted to authorities regarding illegal online sale of medicines and discounts being offered by certain platforms, but adequate action had not yet been taken.

The New Indian Express reports that the strike affected normal medicine availability in several areas, though emergency services at hospitals continued without major disruption.

The protesting associations reiterated that their agitation was aimed at protecting the interests of retail pharmacists and ensuring proper regulation of medicine sales in the country.