Indian pharmacists and chemists across multiple states stage a nationwide protest on May 20 against e-pharmacies, joining a bandh called by the All-India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD). Medical stores and chemist shops remain shut in several parts of the country as more than 15 lakh chemists and druggists participate in the strike, according to reports.
The protest focuses on grievances that e-pharmacies are operating with insufficient regulatory oversight, with allegations of regulatory gaps that allow online medicine sales to proceed without adequate scrutiny. The protesters also raise concerns about deep discounting practices by some online sellers and what they describe as illegal sales of medicines through online channels.
AIOCD and participating pharmacists demand action to ensure compliance and stronger regulation of e-pharmacy operations, including measures related to safety and pricing. The protest follows continued public debate over the role of e-pharmacies and the enforcement of existing rules governing medicine distribution.
