Chemists to down shutters on September 28

BENGALURU: Alleging loopholes in the draft regulations on e-pharmacies published by the central government recently, the Karnataka Chemists and Druggists Association has called for a statewide pharmacy bandh on September 28.

Over 20,000 chemists who are members of the association will take part in the bandh by downing their shutters. There are 26,000 druggists in the state.

Stating that in the absence of stringent regulations, online transaction could lead to rampant sale of restricted drugs, AK Jeevan, general secretary of the association, said drugs such as anti-depressants might be sold without verification.

“As per the draft regulations, online pharmacies come under the central drug controller and the state bodies have no control over them. While inspections are conducted frequently in physical stores by drug inspectors, the draft regulations say an authorised person would inspect the online pharma portals once in two years. This will only add to loopholes. Besides, there is no mechanism in e-pharmacies to crosscheck the genuineness of a prescription. We oppose the same,” said Jeevan.

Chemists are also opposing discounts offered by online portals (up to 60% on certain drugs). “As per rulebook, up to 16% discount on maximum retail price is allowed. But epharmacies are offering over and above this,” said pharmacists. Authorities at Karnataka State Drug Controller’s office said they will appeal to chemists not to go on a protest. “We will call for a meeting with them shortly and appeal to them to withdraw the protest,” said officials.

However, all pharmacies connected to hospitals, nursing homes and emergency outlets will function normally, said members of the association.