Patna: Pharmaceutical traders across Bihar will observe a statewide shutdown on May 20 as part of a nationwide protest against online medicine sales and the Centre’s new drug policy.
Both wholesale and retail medicine shops are expected to remain closed during the strike, which has been backed by major chemists’ bodies in the state, including the Bihar Chemists and Druggists Association and the Patna Chemists and Druggists Association.
The associations said the rapid expansion of online pharmacies and recent policy changes were severely affecting traditional medicine retailers and the existing pharmaceutical distribution network. They appealed to chemists across Bihar to support the agitation in unity.
Association leaders warned that the protest could intensify if their demands are ignored. They said further demonstrations and phased shutdowns would be organised in the coming weeks.
State president P.K. Singh and general secretary Rajesh Arya said medicine shopkeepers would begin the strike from late on the night of May 19.
Ahead of the bandh, chemists across the state will wear black armbands from May 16 to May 19 as a mark of protest.
Association president Arjun Yadav said the agitation was not only about protecting businesses, but also about ensuring patient safety and maintaining the integrity of the medicine supply system.
The shutdown is likely to inconvenience patients and their families, particularly those dependent on regular medication. Chemists’ associations have urged the public to purchase essential medicines in advance to avoid difficulties during the bandh.
