Punjab Chemists Call Strike on May 20 Against Unregulated E-Pharmacies
Ludhiana: Chemist shops across Punjab will remain closed for 24 hours on May 20 as the Punjab Chemists Association has called for a statewide strike against the alleged unregulated functioning of e-pharmacies, raising concerns over both public health risks and the impact on traditional pharmacy businesses.
The decision was taken during a key state-level meeting held in Ludhiana, where office-bearers and representatives from various districts unanimously supported the protest. As part of the agitation plan, chemists across the state will wear black badges from May 15 to May 19, leading up to the complete shutdown from midnight of May 19 to midnight of May 20.
In addition to retail outlets, wholesale drug markets will also remain closed during the strike, which is expected to significantly disrupt medicine supply chains. The association stated that members from across Punjab have backed the move, reflecting widespread concern within the pharmaceutical trade over the rapid expansion of online medicine platforms.
The chemists’ body alleged that many e-pharmacies are operating without strict regulatory oversight. They claimed that medicines are often sold online without proper prescription verification, unlike physical pharmacies that are required to follow stringent legal and regulatory norms.
Highlighting the risks involved, the association warned that doorstep delivery of medicines without adequate checks could lead to misuse, particularly among the youth, and may contribute to drug abuse. They emphasized that their protest is aimed not only at protecting business interests but also at ensuring safe and responsible distribution of medicines.
The Tribune reports that the association has urged the Punjab government and health authorities to implement strict regulations on e-pharmacies and take immediate action against alleged violations. It also warned that if their demands are not addressed, the protest could be intensified in the coming days.
