Expressing solidarity with the bandh called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), the Utkal Chemists’ and Druggists’ Association (UCDA) has decided that 20,000 chemists across the State would go on strike on October 14.
However, the association would open a call centre on the bandh day where patients can dial 0674-2511119 for help if any emergency arises, said UCDA president Prasanta Mohapatra.
“The move directly violates the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Section 65(10) (A) of the Act clearly mentions that one can purchase medicnines after showing the doctor’s prescripition from the medicine store while Section 65 (B) of the Act says that prescription should carry the patient’s name and address,” said association general secretary Chaudhury Prabir Das, adding that such rules cannot be followed in case of online trading of medicine.
He added that online sales of medicines can pose a huge problem as there is no regulation over how prescriptions can be tampered with.
The association has also submitted memorandums to the Prime Minister, Chief Minister, Union and State Health Ministers, DCGI, National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority and others demanding complete prohibition on sale of medicines through the Internet.