Nationwide chemists' strike begins with mixed results.

In New Delhi, a strike has been called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists, an association representing over 12 lakh chemists, pharmacists, and distributors. Their main concerns are the unregulated practices and deep discounting by online pharmacies. Today, the strike started on a mixed note with some outlets of organised pharmacy chains in the National Capital Region remaining open, while the AIOCD claims that their members are fully supporting the strike.

According to Rajiv Singhal, the General Secretary of AIOCD, the strike has been successful as all medical shops are closed across the country. He also mentioned that the strike does not include nursing home pharmacies that are operating within hospitals. However, some organised pharmacy chains have chosen not to participate in the strike, stating that they are not a part of the AIOCD's nationwide call.

Singhal explained that the strike is a protest against the GSR 817 and GSR 220 notifications, which are essentially legitimizing the operations of online pharmacies. This has resulted in the sale of medicines without proper physical verification of prescriptions, while corporate-backed online pharmacies are offering deep discounts, causing harm to traditional chemists. The AIOCD is determined to protect the interests of its members and stakeholders, and they will consider their future course of action after the one-day strike.

Their aim is to bring attention to the issues faced by traditional chemists and ensure that proper regulations are in place for online pharmacies. This strike has been called to address the concerns of the AIOCD and to safeguard the health of the general public. In the midst of this strike, Orissa POST, Odisha's No.1 English Daily, stands with the AIOCD and their efforts to regulate the pharmaceutical industry.

As a responsible newspaper, we support the cause and encourage the government to take necessary action to address the concerns of traditional chemists and safeguard the health of the public.