Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, May 16: Most medical stores across Goa are expected to remain closed on May 20 as the Chemist & Druggist Association of Goa joins the nationwide strike called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists.

The protest has been called against the online sale of medicines, alleged unfair trade practices and the growing impact of e-pharmacies on small retailers. However, hospital pharmacies and essential medical outlets are expected to continue operations during the strike.

Chemist associations said the agitation is intended to draw the Central Government’s attention towards issues such as deep discounting by online platforms, unequal market conditions for offline retailers and the alleged sale of medicines without proper prescription verification.

Pharmacists have expressed concern that unchecked online medicine sales could adversely affect traditional chemists and compromise patient safety standards.