A nationwide strike called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) is set to take place on Wednesday, May 20, raising concerns over access to medicines. However, not all outlets will shut operations, offering partial relief to patients.
According to sources cited by ANI, pharmacy outlets attached to hospitals will continue to operate during the strike. Large medicine retailers associated with the supply chain are also expected to remain open. In addition, Jan Aushadhi Kendras and AMRIT pharmacies will function as usual across the country, ensuring the availability of essential medicines.
Why has the strike been called?
The AIOCD has announced the strike to protest against deep discounting practices by e-pharmacies and what it describes as inadequate regulatory control over online medicine sales. The organisation has already held discussions with the national drug regulator, presenting its concerns and demands.
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Among the issues flagged is the alleged misuse of artificial intelligence to generate fake prescriptions. The group claims this loophole is enabling unrestricted access to antibiotics, which could worsen the threat of antimicrobial resistance.
All pharmacy chains and hospital pharmacy stores, Jan Aushadhi stores, AMRIT Pharmacy stores will remain open tomorrow, in addition to the many state and chemist associations who have already pulled out from the strike: Sources
— ANI (@ANI) May 19, 2026
Govt assures action as chemists’ demands under review
Sources indicate that the organisation has been assured that its concerns are being taken seriously. Officials have conveyed that an existing regulatory mechanism is in place to evaluate these demands, and the matter is under consideration.
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Relief for patients as chemists back out of strike
While the strike initially raised fears of widespread disruption, developments suggest a softer impact. Several retail chemist associations have stepped back from the protest. According to ANI sources, organisations from 12 states and union territories have withdrawn their participation, with West Bengal among them.
This decision comes amid concerns that patients relying on daily or life-saving medicines could face serious difficulties if shops remain closed. For now, these groups are closely watching the government’s response before taking further steps.
