Chemists’ strike impacts medicine availability across Maharashtra, several Mumbai pharmacies stay operational

Online pharmacy row triggers chemists’ strike in Maharashtra; some stores continue operations in Mumbai. Pic/ Samiullah Khan

Medical shop owners across several parts of India observed a strike on Wednesday against heavy discounting and alleged unfair trade practices by online medicine platforms.

While chemists' associations in multiple states backed the bandh, Karnataka and nearly a dozen other states reportedly did not participate in the protest.

Large number of medical stores remain shut in Mumbai, Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, including Mumbai, several medical stores remained closed as part of the strike, causing inconvenience to customers seeking medicines and healthcare supplies. However, some pharmacy owners kept their shops open, citing public interest and the essential nature of healthcare services.

Some chemists oppose shutdown of essential services

Speaking on the issue, Shantilal, owner of Sangoi Medical Store in Malad, said shutting medical stores was not the appropriate way to protest.

"There are other ways to protest, but closure is not the solution. Medical service is an essential service, and we entered this business knowing that it is directly connected to patients' needs and their lives," he said.

He further stated that traders and chemists have several democratic ways to raise their demands before the government, but a complete bandh should be avoided considering the hardship caused to patients.

Online discounts spark fresh tensions in pharma sector

The strike has once again highlighted the growing tension between traditional chemists and online pharmacy companies over pricing, discounts and competition in the pharmaceutical sector.