Representational Image. (IANS Photo)
Dimapur, May 20 (MExN): Chemists and druggists across Nagaland on Wednesday shut their establishments in response to a nationwide one-day token strike called by the All India Organisation of Chemists & Druggists (AIOCD), protesting against the alleged illegal and uncontrolled online sale of medicines which they said poses a grave threat to public health and the survival of small licensed chemists.
A memorandum addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi was submitted through the Divisional Commissioner, District Collector, SDM or Tehsildar in respective districts, drawing the government’s attention to three serious issues: illegal and unregulated online sale of medicines, sale and home delivery of medicines without valid and verified prescriptions, and predatory deep discounting practices by online medicine platforms that adversely affect small chemists.
The memorandum also demanded the immediate withdrawal of GSR 817(E) and GSR 220(E), which the chemists alleged are being misused by various online platforms and quick commerce operators for uncontrolled delivery of medicines.
The Nagaland Medicine Dealers Association (NMDA) said that medicines are not ordinary commodities and that uncontrolled online sale without proper verification undermines the regulatory framework established under the Drugs & Cosmetics Act.
The pharmaceutical trade reiterated that during the Covid pandemic, chemists across the nation worked tirelessly as frontline healthcare support providers, ensuring uninterrupted supply of medicines to the public. Despite repeated representations and submission of evidence regarding illegal online operations, no effective action has yet been taken by the concerned authorities, the NMDA said.
The strike across the state remained peaceful and received overwhelming support from chemists and druggists. The association also fulfilled its humanitarian responsibility by providing essential and emergency medicines to needy patients during the bandh, it added.
The NMDA expressed gratitude to all presidents and members of affiliated district chemist and druggist associations from Dimapur, Chümoukedima, Niuland, Kohima, Mokokchung, Phek, Shamator, Kiphire, Mon, Zunheboto and other districts.
The association also extended appreciation to all district administrations, the Commissioner of Police, and the Drug Control Administration for their administrative, technical and moral support in the successful observance of the bandh. The NMDA further acknowledged the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) for safeguarding the business community from infiltration and intimidation, and for helping maintain a cordial business atmosphere in the Dimapur market.
The association thanked the public, patients and their families across the state for understanding their concerns and bearing with them during the strike.
