All-India chemists’ strike has widespread impact in Mussoorie

my uttarakhand news Bureau
Mussoorie, 20 May: Responding to a nationwide call by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists, all medical stores in Mussoorie remained closed on Wednesday. The closure of medicine shops caused immense inconvenience to local residents, patients, and tourists. In particular, the elderly, the sick, and tourists—who wished to procure their daily medications—were seen wandering from place to place throughout the day. Most medicine shops across Mussoorie’s major markets—including Mall Road, Library Chowk, Kulri, Landour, and the Picture Palace area—remained completely shut.

Vipul Mittal, President of the Mussoorie Chemists’ Association, stated that this strike was observed in solidarity with over 1.24 million chemists and medicine distributors across the country. He asserted that the existence of small and medium-sized medicine vendors is currently under threat due to the proliferation of illegal e-pharmacies, attempts by large corporate houses to capture the market by offering massive discounts, and certain government notifications. Vipul Mittal emphasised that medicine is not merely a commodity; rather, it is a matter directly linked to public health. He warned that, if the online sale of medicines continues without a valid medical prescription, it could put patients’ lives at risk. He further noted that antibiotics and habit-forming drugs are becoming easily accessible on online platforms, thereby exacerbating serious issues such as Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR). He alleged that large corporate entities are attempting to drive small traders out of business by offering steep discounts. This trend is disrupting the traditional medicine distribution system that has been established and functioning for decades. He demanded that the government immediately ban illegal e-pharmacies and ensure a fair and equitable trade environment. On the other hand, the closure of medicine shops caused significant difficulties for many patients. Tourists reported that they were unable to procure essential medicines when they suddenly fell ill. Local residents also noted that the shutdown had an impact on healthcare services within the city.
Present on the occasion were several chemists and medicine vendors, including Dr Neeraj Singhal (General Secretary of the Mussoorie Chemists’ Association), Ashish Garg, Manoj Agarwal, Sumit, and Dr Ashraf Ali Khan.