By NE NOW NEWS
Aizawl: The Mizoram Chemists and Druggists Association (MCDA) on Tuesday warned that the unchecked operation of online pharmacies could lead to a surge in the availability and abuse of addictive drugs in Mizoram and across the country.
Addressing a press conference in Aizawl, MCDA leaders said the association is not opposed to online pharmacies as a concept, but strongly objects to the lack of a proper legal and regulatory framework governing online medicine sales in India.
They maintained that their concerns stem from public safety issues rather than commercial interests.
The statement comes ahead of the nationwide strike called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists on Wednesday.
MCDA leaders alleged that several medicines sold through online platforms are either counterfeit or manufactured by unverified companies. They claimed that substandard medicines are frequently detected in the online market and expressed concern over drugs being delivered by unidentified individuals without proper accountability or monitoring mechanisms.
“While pharmacies are not allowed to function without qualified pharmacists, online platforms continue to sell medicines through unknown channels,” MCDA leaders said, adding that Mizoram currently lacks a robust system to effectively monitor such activities.
The association further warned that if online pharmacies continue to operate without strict regulation, narcotic and habit-forming medicines could eventually become easily accessible through online orders.
According to the MCDA, such a development would undermine ongoing anti-drug abuse efforts undertaken by the government and organisations such as the Young Mizo Association.
The association also announced that all pharmacies in Mizoram, except those operating within hospital premises, will remain closed on Wednesday as part of the nationwide strike.
MCDA leaders urged the public to purchase essential medicines in advance to avoid inconvenience during the shutdown.