Andhra Pradesh: Local pharmacy owners in Vijayawada protest against illegal online medicine sales
Vijayawada, May 20
As part of the one-day nationwide strike, local pharmacy owners in Vijayawada took to the streets on Wednesday to protest against the rising trend of online drug sales and doorstep medicine deliveries.
Organised under the banner of the NTR District Chemists & Druggists Association, the protesters carried banners opposing online medicine sales and doorstep delivery of drugs.
The protestors held placards with slogans such as "Support Local Chemists, Support Safe Healthcare" and "Protect Chemists, Protect Public Health", and demanded strict action against illegal online medicine distribution.
The association members alleged that the online sale of medicines is affecting small and local medical shops and also posing risks to public health. They said certain medicines are being supplied without proper verification and prescription checks, which could endanger patients.
Posters displayed during the protest stated that chemists are not against patient services, but they are opposing practices that violate drug control regulations and threaten the livelihood of licensed pharmacists.
The protest was organised with the support of the All India Organisation of Chemists & Druggists (AIOCD) and Andhra Pradesh Chemists & Druggists Association leaders.
The protesting chemists have urged the government to protect licensed medical shops and ensure strict implementation of pharmaceutical regulations.
Meanwhile, all major pharmacy chains, hospital-attached medical stores, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, and AMRIT Pharmacy outlets across the country were to remain open on Wednesday, May 20, despite a nationwide shutdown call given by the AIOCD against e-pharmacies, sources said on Tuesday.
This development came after representatives of the AIOCD met the national drug regulator to present their grievances regarding the sector.
Following the meeting, they were assured that the issues raised by the associations are under active review and that the regulatory framework governing the sector is being thoroughly examined to address the legitimate concerns of retail pharmacy stakeholders.
Sources further emphasised that any disruption in the functioning of chemist shops could cause serious inconvenience to patients, particularly to vulnerable groups, who are dependent on regular access to life-saving and essential medicines for their survival.
Recognising the critical impact on public health, several retail pharmacy associations reviewed the situation and expressed satisfaction over the regulator's constructive response. In view of the ongoing review process and the immediate need to safeguard patient welfare, these bodies have categorically declined to support the proposed bandh.
Consequently, retail pharmacy associations from 12 states and Union Territories, such as West Bengal, Kerala, Punjab, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Ladakh, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand, have voluntarily submitted written assurances confirming they will not participate in the strike.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Look, I understand the concerns about safety, but what about people who live in remote areas or have mobility issues? Online delivery is a blessing for them. Why can't we have a system where both local shops and verified online platforms coexist with proper regulations? The protest is valid, but we need balanced solutions.
Finally someone is taking a stand! 🎯 I always prefer buying from my local medical store. They remember my regular medicines, give discounts, and even help in emergencies at odd hours. Online platforms are just big corporations trying to destroy small businesses. Well done, local chemists!
I'm a regular user of both local and online pharmacies. The protest has a point about prescription verification, but many local shops also sell antibiotics without prescription when they know the customer. Online platforms at least have a digital trail. Let's not pretend local chemists are saints. Both sides need stricter enforcement.
As a patient with chronic illness, I rely on timely medicine delivery. Online services have been a lifesaver during lockdowns and when I can't step out. But I also respect local pharmacists who know my history. Why can't the government create a unified platform where licensed local shops can also do online delivery? Win-win for everyone! 🤝
Impressive that 12 states have opted out of supporting the strike. It shows the regulators are taking this seriously and trying to find a middle path. The key is ensuring patient safety while allowing innovation. Let's hope the Drug Controller comes up with clear guidelines that work for everyone.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.