The central government's proposal to allow sale of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines without a license is also facing opposition in Bhopal.
Bhopal Chemist Association President Jitendra Dhakad said how will medicines be sold at the grocery store? This proposal should be withdrawn. A memorandum will also be submitted in Bhopal.
All India Organization of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) had already expressed concern over this proposal. Besides, memorandums have also been submitted to the Health Minister, Principal Health Secretary, Drug Controller General, Director General of Health Services, Chairman of National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) and other concerned officials. Association president Dhakad said such a move would violate existing drug laws, pharmacy regulations and relevant legal framework including Supreme Court directions. The harms of the proposal would be dangerous self-medication and drug abuse,Lack of pharmacist consultation services, increased risk of adverse drug reactions, spread of counterfeit medicines, Delay in access to health services.
