Pharmacies in Kohima and Wokha observed a shutdown on Wednesday supporting the nationwide strike called by the AIOCD.
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KOHIMA/WOKHA — Pharmacies and distributors across Kohima and Wokha districts observed a shutdown of stores and outlets on Wednesday, joining the nationwide strike called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD).
A supplier informed Eastern Mirror that operations remained suspended in response to the nationwide strike call. However, pharmacies operating within hospitals and nursing homes remained functional.
A retailer-pharmacist stated that chemists in Kohima observed the shutdown in solidarity with the nationwide protest. The source noted that many online pharmacy platforms are operating without proper regulation, creating difficulties for traditional chemists. The pharmacist added that the shutdown was being observed only for May 20.
Also read: Nagaland chemists join nationwide strike against online medicine sales
In Wokha, the one-day nationwide bandh was observed from 6 am to 6 pm in compliance with the directive of the Nagaland Medicine Dealers Association (NMDA) to protest against the unchecked operation of e-pharmacies and other unresolved issues affecting the trade.
Meanwhile, the AIOCD stated ahead of the shutdown that the nationwide strike was called to protest against the alleged illegal operations of e-pharmacies, deep discounting practices, and the continued implementation of certain emergency notifications introduced during the COVID-19 period.
The organisation alleged that the unregulated online sale of medicines and the repeated use of prescriptions through digital platforms pose risks to public health and could contribute to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). It also claimed that heavy discounting by large corporate entities is affecting the survival of small chemists, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
The AIOCD further demanded the withdrawal of the COVID-period notification G.S.R. 220 and the e-pharmacy-related notification G.S.R. 817, besides seeking a "level playing field" policy to prevent unfair pricing practices.
AIOCD President J S Shinde and General Secretary Rajiv Singhal stated that the agitation concerns both the livelihood of chemists and patient safety, warning that the organisation may intensify its protest if no action is taken on the demands.