Pharmacy Strike Today, May 20: Why Are Chemists Protesting? Will All Medical Stores Remain Shut?

A nationwide one-day strike called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) today has raised concerns among patients across India, especially those dependent on daily medicines for chronic conditions.

The protest is aimed at opposing online medicine sales and deep discounting practices by e-pharmacy platforms. While lakhs of chemists and distributors are expected to take part, participation is not uniform, and several state associations have already opted out. Pharmacy Strike on May 20: Jan Aushadhi Kendras To Stay Open; Assure Uninterrupted Medicine Supply.

Why Are Pharmacists Protesting?

The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists says the strike is intended to challenge what it describes as unregulated online medicine sales and unfair competition from e-pharmacy platforms.

At the centre of the dispute are government notifications GSR 220(E) and GSR 817(E), which the organisation claims created regulatory loopholes for online medicine delivery. Pharmacy Strike on May 20: Tamil Nadu Govt Assures Uninterrupted Medicine Supply Amid Chemists’ Nationwide ‘Bandh’ Call.

What Are Their Demands?

According to an Indian Express report, AIOCD general secretary Rajiv Singhal raised concerns over: “wrong or fake prescriptions” being used on online platforms.

• Stricter regulation of e-pharmacies
• Tighter monitoring of prescription-based drug sales
• Action against deep discounting (20%–50%) by online platforms
• Protection for neighbourhood chemists
• Clear legal framework for e-pharmacy operations

Chemist bodies argue that small retail pharmacies cannot compete with aggressive online pricing, leading to unfair market conditions.

Will All Medical Stores Remain Shut Tomorrow?

No, a complete nationwide shutdown is unlikely. Reports suggest pharmacy associations in at least 12 states and Union Territories, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Punjab and West Bengal, have distanced themselves from the bandh.

This means many local pharmacies may continue normal operations, although participation levels may still be significant in certain markets. Consumers should therefore expect partial disruption rather than a full closure.

What Will Likely Remain Open?

Despite the strike call, essential and emergency services are expected to function.

The following are likely to remain open:

• Hospital-attached pharmacies
• Government hospital medicine counters
• Emergency medical stores
• Selected 24×7 pharmacies
• Jan Aushadhi Kendras in many areas

Authorities in some states are also preparing contingency plans to ensure uninterrupted access to essential medicines.

What Could Be Affected?

Depending on local participation, the following may see disruption:

• Standalone neighbourhood chemist shops
• Wholesale medicine distributors
• Local supply chains
• Private pharmacy counters in clinics and markets

Areas dependent on independent pharmacies may face temporary shortages, delayed restocking, or reduced operating hours.

Patients Advised to Plan Ahead

Health experts are advising patients not to wait until the last moment for refills. People managing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, heart disease, and asthma are especially advised to stock essential medicines in advance. Even where pharmacies remain open, supply delays or reduced staffing may affect availability.

The strike highlights the broader conflict between traditional pharmacy networks and India’s expanding online medicine delivery sector. Retail chemists argue that e-pharmacies operate in a regulatory grey zone, especially after pandemic-era relaxations expanded doorstep delivery services.

They also warn that unchecked online sales could increase misuse of prescription medicines, including antibiotics. Government officials have stated that consultations are ongoing and have emphasised that patient access to medicines must not be disrupted.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 20, 2026 06:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).