Medical stores shut across Gujarat; strike against e-pharmacies

Medical stores across Gujarat remained closed on Tuesday as chemists and druggists joined a nationwide protest against online medicine sales and the growing presence of e-pharmacy platforms. The strike, led by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), affected pharmacy operations in major cities including Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot and Vadodara.

In Surat alone, nearly 7,000 medical stores remained shut as local chemist associations extended support to the agitation. The closure caused inconvenience to patients and residents, particularly those dependent on daily medication for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, blood pressure and other long-term health conditions.

Pharmacists alleged that the unchecked growth of online medicine platforms has increased the risk of counterfeit drugs entering the market, posing a serious threat to public health. They also raised concerns over the alleged online sale of addictive and controlled medicines, warning that easier access through digital platforms could increase misuse among youth.

Trade bodies stated that repeated discounting practices and unregulated medicine deliveries are negatively impacting traditional retail pharmacies. They demanded stricter Government regulations on online drug sales and tighter monitoring of prescription-based medicine distribution.

During the strike, several residents were seen moving from one area to another in search of open pharmacies, as many local medical stores remained closed throughout the day. However, emergency services and select hospital-linked pharmacies continued operations to ensure access to critical medicines.

Chemist associations warned that if their demands are not addressed, they may intensify the protest in the coming weeks.