All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) called for a nationwide shutdown of medicine shops on May 20 (tomorrow) in protest against the online sale of medicines.

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The Bandh called on Tuesday is expected to affect retail pharmacy operations across several states, prompting the Government of Odisha to issue precautionary directives to avoid any disruption in the supply of essential medicines.

According to official sources, the strike has been announced by the traders’ body to oppose the growing trend of online medicine sales, which the organisation claims is adversely affecting traditional pharmacy businesses and raising concerns over allegedly unregulated drug distribution.

In view of the shutdown call, the Odisha government has directed the State Directorate of Drugs Control to ensure uninterrupted supply of life-saving medicines as well as emergency healthcare support across the State. Moreover, strict instructions have been issued to all Drug Inspectors and Assistant Drugs Controllers to closely monitor medicine availability at the district and local levels.

Authorities have specifically ordered hospital medical stores to remain operational during the Bandh to avoid inconvenience to patients and attendants. District-level officials have also been asked to keep a constant watch on medicine distribution and availability, especially of critical and emergency drugs.

The State government has stressed that no disruption should occur in the supply of life-saving medicines to the public. Officials have been instructed to coordinate with district administrations and local police to ensure that necessary medical stores, except the private ones, remain open wherever required.

The move comes amid concerns that the closure of medicine shops could create difficulties for critical patients who are dependent on regular medication and emergency treatment. The government has assured that all necessary measures are being taken to prevent inconvenience to the public.

Meanwhile, pharmacy associations supporting the Bandh said the protest is aimed at drawing the attention of authorities toward the impact of online medicine platforms on small and independent chemists across the country.

“Closely monitor the ample availability and supply of essential and life-saving drugs in your respective jurisdictions. Ensure that all in-house pharmacies/medicine stores attached to the hospitals and clinical establishments, including 24×7 medicine stores, remain functional with adequate additional manpower to cater to public demand,” a notification issued by the Directorate of Drugs Control in this regard mentioned.