Chemists across India have called for a nationwide strike on Wednesday to protest against the growing sale of medicines through online platforms and e-pharmacies. The agitation, led by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), is likely to impact the availability of medicines in several cities as more than 12.4 lakh private medical stores are expected to remain closed for the day, reported IANS.

The protest has been organised to highlight concerns over what chemists describe as inadequate regulation of online medicine sales. Retail pharmacy associations have alleged that several e-pharmacy platforms are operating without strict monitoring, particularly in the verification of prescriptions and the storage and delivery of medicines, reported IANS.