Chemists on strike again

Rawalpindi: Majority of pharmacies and medical stores kept their shutters down to protest against amendments to the Drug Act. A large number of people protested against amendments to the Drug Act and blocked Murree Road on Thursday.

The protesters carrying banners and placards in their hands raised anti-government slogans. While marching on Murree Road they blocked traffic. On reaching Rawalpindi Press Club the speakers addressed the gathering on the occasion. A heavy contingent of police were also present to control the situation.

President of Pakistan Chemists and Druggists Association (Rawalpindi Chapter), Arshad Mehmood Awan told newsmen that all factories and medical stores would remain closed and the protest would continue till withdrawal of the ‘cruel’ changes made in the 1976 Drug Act. If Punjab government fails to resolve their issues, they would come on roads along with their families, he warned.

According to amendments to the Drug Act, seller of substandard medicines will get punishment of five-year jail with Rs1 million fine, seller of fake medicine will undergo five-year imprisonment with fine of Rs50 million. While those found selling medicines without licence will get 10-year jail and will be fined Rs100 million. The situation created problems for the people looking for medicines for patients at homes or hospitals.