Bhubaneswar, 13.5 : More than 30000 Chemists across the State will take to the streets against the unregulated functioning of online pharmacies and predatory pricing. Illegal e-pharmacies and deep discounting have put the livelihood of our members dependents at risk.
The Utkal Chemists and Druggist Association (UCDA), has announced a one-day shutdown on Wednesday, 20th May 2026 against government inaction. Our All India Association in a memorandum submitted to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the organization has made it clear that despite repeated requests, no concrete action has been taken on the serious issue affecting the pharmaceutical trade, resulting in deep resentment among chemists across the country.
Major points of Concern :
1. Illegal E-pharmacies and Threat to Public Health (G.S.R..817(E)
The organization alleges that e-pharmacy platforms are taking advantage of regulatory relaxation. Sale of medicines without physical verification is leading to repeated use of the same prescription. Through Al-based fake prescriptions, uncontrolled availability of antibiotics and habit-forming drug is giving rise to major threats such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This is a direct compromise with public health.
2. Predatory Pricing
Large corporate entitles are disturbing market balance through deep discounting. While margins on essential medicines are fixed by the Government (NPPA/DPCO), these entire are creating unfair competition. This is threatening the survival of small chemists in rural and semi-urban areas, which will ultimately destroy the accessible medicine supply system.
3. Delay in Withdrawal of Emergency Notification (G.S.R.220(E)
The notification issued during Covid-19 (26 March 2020) which was a temporary measure, is not rational to continue even today. This rule is weakening the strict provisions of Drug Rule 65 and digital platforms are taking advantage of it to violate regulatory safeguard.
Major Demands of UCDA
The temporary Covid-period notification G.S.R.220(E) should be withdrawn with immediate effect.
The e-pharmacy related notification G.S.R 817(E) should be withdrawn.
A “Level Playing Field” policy should be introduced to stop unfair deep discounting by corporate.
Organization’s Appeal :
UCDA President P. Satyanarayan and General Secretary Prasant Mohapatra jointly stated, “This is not merely a matter of trade, but of patient safety. If the Government does not take any concrete decision on these demands by 20 May, we will be compelled to launch an indefinite agitation.
Utkal Chemists and Druggist Association (UCDA).
(P. Satyanarayan)
President, UCDA (Prasant Mohapatra)
General Secretary, UCDA
