Chemists, druggists in Madurai down shutters to protest against online sale of medicines

Chemists and druggists across Madurai district will close their shutters on May 20 as part of a nationwide strike called by the All India Organization of Chemists and Druggists against the online sale of medicines.

Members of the C and D Medical Association told reporters at a press conference in Madurai on Tuesday that online sale of medicines poses a serious threat to people’s health and lives.

Youth was spoiled. Without obtaining a valid medical prescription, they were able to access and use drugs such as painkillers, which they said was dangerous.

Despite numerous protests demanding a ban on the sale of medicines through various platforms, no action has been taken so far, they said.

The members highlighted the demands and said that the online sale of drugs should be stopped immediately to protect people, especially young people, who bought painkillers and other drugs online, regulate unethical profit margins and discounts on life-saving drugs, and prevent the sale of counterfeit drugs.

The members said they would also stage a protest near Sethupathi Higher Secondary School. They also plan to submit a petition to the state government in this regard.

Published – 19 May 2026 23:34 IST