Pharmacy Strike in Assam Leaves Patients Struggling for Medicines
Desperate families hunt for pills as 80% pharmacies shut across Assam
The Times Of IndiaImage: The Times Of India
A nationwide strike by chemists in Assam led to over 80% of pharmacies closing, leaving families desperate for medicine. The strike, organized by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists, protested against online medicine sales, which they claim threaten public health and safety.
- 01More than 20,000 pharmacies in Assam participated in the strike, affecting healthcare access for many patients.
- 02The Chemists & Druggists Association of Assam (CDAA) emphasized that medicines should not be treated as ordinary commodities.
- 03Despite the strike, over 500 pharmacies remained open, including those in hospitals and nursing homes to serve emergency needs.
- 04Protesters submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding regulation of online medicine sales and withdrawal of specific government notifications.
- 05The Assam Drug Dealers’ Association (ADDA) opposed the strike, citing its negative impact on patient care.
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On Wednesday, Assam experienced significant disruption as over 80% of its 20,000 pharmacies closed in support of a nationwide strike organized by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD). This strike aimed to protest against the unregulated online sale of medicines, which chemists argue poses a serious threat to public health and safety. Patients like Sukumar Bharali and Arati Das faced dire situations while searching for medications for their sick relatives, highlighting the strike's impact on healthcare access. The Chemists & Druggists Association of Assam (CDAA) reported that the strike was a success, with over 20,000 members participating. However, the Assam Drug Dealers’ Association (ADDA) criticized the strike for its potential to disrupt patient care, despite sharing concerns about online sales. During the strike, a memorandum was submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding the regulation of online medicine sales and the withdrawal of two controversial government notifications. While the protest remained largely peaceful, some pharmacy owners claimed they were coerced into closing their shops. Notably, over 500 pharmacies remained operational to cater to emergency needs throughout the state.
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The closure of pharmacies severely affected patients needing medications, highlighting the vital role of local chemists in healthcare.
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