On Wednesday, chemists across India participated in a nationwide strike organized by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) to protest against the rise of online pharmacies and concerns regarding counterfeit medicines. The strike resulted in the closure of medical stores in various states, significantly disrupting healthcare services. Parsan Kumar Singh, President of the Bihar Chemists and Druggists Association, highlighted that the protest received extensive support, with demonstrations occurring at multiple levels throughout Bihar. The shutdown was particularly impactful in states like Punjab, where major medicine markets were closed. While some public opinion favored online pharmacies for their convenience, others expressed understanding of the chemists' concerns. In Tamil Nadu's Tiruvarur district, more than 1,200 pharmacies joined the strike. Despite the protest, some pharmacies, especially those near hospitals, remained open to serve patients in urgent need of medications. The chemists are demanding stricter regulations on e-pharmacies and a ban on counterfeit drugs.