Hyderabad: Following a nationwide protest call by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), the Hyderabad Chemists and Druggists Association (HCDA) announced on Monday that all medical shops across Telangana will remain closed on Wednesday, May 20.
Protest Against Drug Regulation Amendments
The Telangana Chemists and Druggists Association (TTCDA), along with HCDA and AIOCD, stated that the shutdown is in protest against recent amendments to drug regulations and the functioning of online pharmacies. The associations expressed serious concerns over the unrestricted operations of online pharmacies and digital medicine platforms, which they believe could lead to misuse of medicines, rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and significant risks to public health.
Demands for Action Against Online Pharmacies
The chemists also demanded strict action against online medicine platforms that are allegedly violating the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Policy (NPPP) and Drug Price Control Order (DPCO) norms. They accused these platforms of selling medicines at heavy discounts, which is adversely affecting small retail medical shops. The associations emphasized the need to protect the traditional pharmacy sector and ensure safe medicine distribution.
Statement from HCDA President
HCDA President Argonda Sridhar Gupta clarified the purpose of the protest, stating, "This protest is not against anyone. It is being organised for the protection of public health." He further added that the protest aims to safeguard public health and the pharmacy sector from potential harm caused by unregulated online medicine sales.
The closure is expected to impact patients across Telangana, and the associations have urged the public to understand their concerns. They have also called for a dialogue with regulatory authorities to address their grievances.
