Pharmacies near the Government Hospital remained closed as part of a nationwide strike by pharmacists on Wednesday.
| Photo Credit: R. Vengadesh
Members of the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists observed a one-day strike on Wednesday demanding a ban on online sale of medicines and stricter regulation of painkillers and sleeping pills sold through digital platforms.The association members said unrestricted online sale of medicines was leading to misuse among youngsters, with many allegedly becoming addicted to painkillers and sleeping tablets purchased through online platforms.According to the Tiruchi District Chemists and Druggists Association, around 1,200 pharmacies are functioning across Tiruchi district besides about 100 medical shops attached to hospitals. Except for pharmacies attached to hospitals, most medical shops remained closed in support of the strike.P. Kirubanandha Moorthy, district president of the association, said the strike received “full cooperation” from members and nearly 1,300 wholesale and retail medical shops in Tiruchi district remained shut.He said representations had been submitted several times to MPs and the Union government seeking a ban on online medicine trade, but no action had been taken so far.The strike also witnessed participation from neighbouring districts, with around 600 shops closed in Thanjavur district, 400 in Tiruvarur, 200 in Mayiladuthurai and 300 in Nagapattinam district, according to the association. Published - May 20, 2026 06:45 pm IST
