Pune, 8th May 2026: Medical shops across Pune city will remain close on May 20, 2026, as chemists join a nationwide protest called by the All India Organization of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD). The strike will be observed across Maharashtra and several other states in the country.
The protest has been organized against the alleged illegal online sale of medicines and what the association describes as unfair business practices by large corporate companies.
According to the organization, these activities are affecting traditional medicine retailers and creating serious concerns for patient safety.
All India Organization of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) president Jagannath Shinde said that medicines are being sold online in violation of regulations, which could put patients’ health at risk. He also stated that small medical store owners are facing heavy financial losses due to growing competition from large corporations and online platforms.
The association has claimed that repeated representations and appeals made to central government ministers and concerned authorities have not received adequate attention. As a result, chemists across the country have decided to observe the shutdown in protest.
Although most medical stores will remain closed during the bandh, the organization has clarified that arrangements will be made to provide essential medicines so that patients do not face major difficulties.