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Chemists Across India Protest Against E-Pharmacies
Chemists to shut shops today over e-pharmacy row
The Times Of India
Image: The Times Of India
Chemists in Patna, Bihar, and across India will close their shops for 24 hours on May 20 in a nationwide strike organized by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD). This protest aims to address concerns over the regulatory framework of online pharmacies, which chemists argue threaten their businesses and public health.
- 01Approximately 40,000 chemists in Bihar, including 7,000 in Patna, are expected to join the strike.
- 02The protest is motivated by concerns that e-pharmacies operate in a 'legal grey zone' and may facilitate the misuse of prescriptions.
- 03Chemists argue that online platforms' heavy discounting practices are harming small pharmacy owners' livelihoods.
- 04Emergency medical services and hospital pharmacies will remain operational during the strike.
- 05Demonstrations are scheduled on GM Road in Patna from 10 am to 1 pm on May 20.
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On May 20, chemists across Bihar, including 7,000 in Patna, will participate in a 24-hour strike against online pharmacies, organized by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD). This nationwide protest involves around 12.4 lakh chemists, aimed at highlighting the regulatory issues surrounding e-pharmacies. Parsan Kumar Singh, vice-president of AIOCD's eastern zone, emphasized that the movement seeks to protect traditional pharmacy businesses and ensure public health safety. Concerns have been raised about e-pharmacies operating in a 'legal grey zone', which could lead to the misuse of prescriptions for antibiotics and habit-forming drugs. Local pharmacy owner AK Sinha noted that many customers have shifted to online platforms due to steep discounts and home delivery options, which small retailers find difficult to compete against. During the strike, emergency medical services will continue to operate, and protests will take place at various locations, including GM Road in Patna.
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The strike may disrupt access to medications for local residents, particularly those relying on traditional pharmacies for prescriptions and consultations.
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