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The main reason behind this massive protest by drug sellers is the sale of medicines over the internet, i.e., 'e-pharmacy', and the huge discounts offered by big corporate companies.

Bharat Bandh by Chemist Association

If you or any member of your family regularly takes medication for any illness, this news is extremely important for you. In fact, there could be a nationwide shortage of medicines on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, as more than 1.24 million chemists across the country, led by the All India Organization of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), are preparing for a "Bharat Bandh." Consequently, drugstores are expected to remain completely closed in most cities, towns, and villages across the country.

Why are chemists going on strike?

The primary reason for this massive protest by drug sellers is the sale of medicines online, or "e-pharmacies," and the steep discounts offered by large corporate companies. Chemists clearly state that the sale of medicines on online platforms is happening without any strict regulations. This has not only threatened their businesses but also poses a significant threat to the lives of patients.

Chemists reveal their 3 biggest concerns

Medicines are being sold without proper testing: Chemists' biggest allegation is that medicines are being sold rampantly on online websites and apps without a valid doctor's prescription. People are uploading the same prescription repeatedly to order medicines. In many cases, narcotic drugs and heavy antibiotics are being easily delivered to homes through fake prescriptions. This is harming the health of ordinary people.

Large companies' steep discounts are ruining small shopkeepers: Large corporate houses are offering such steep discounts on medicines on online platforms that ordinary chemists in neighborhoods, villages, towns, and small cities are struggling to compete. Due to continuous heavy losses, small shopkeepers are facing business stagnation and closing their shops.

Misuse of lax COVID-19 regulations: During the COVID-19 pandemic, when leaving home was difficult, the government temporarily relaxed some regulations related to the sale of medicines. Chemists say that even after the pandemic has ended, those regulations remain in effect, and e-pharmacy companies are exploiting this to their fullest.

What are the main demands of the organization?

• The temporary rules (GSR 220(E)) issued during the Corona period should be cancelled with immediate effect.
• The notification (GSR 817(E)) exempting online pharmacies should be completely withdrawn.
• There should be a ban on huge discounts given by big companies by breaking market rules.

The question of the lives of patients and the employment of 5 crore people

AIOCD President J.S. Shinde and General Secretary Rajiv Singhal have warned that this fight isn't just about protecting chemists' businesses, but rather, it's a serious matter directly related to patient safety. These illegal e-pharmacies and steep discounts have severely threatened the livelihoods of approximately 50 million people involved in the pharmaceutical trade. The organization has issued an ultimatum that if their problems aren't addressed and a concrete solution found by May 20th, this strike won't be a one-day affair. Following this, chemists across the country will be forced to launch a prolonged protest, potentially impacting the entire healthcare system.