Pharmacy shutdown hits Arunachal capital amid row over unqualified medicine sales

Pharmacy services across parts of Arunachal Pradesh's capital region were disrupted on Thursday after a controversy over the alleged sale of medicines by unqualified salesmen triggered inspections, protests and a temporary shutdown, causing inconvenience to patients.

The issue gained momentum after Arunbhoomi Managing Director Takam Sonia raised concerns over pharmacies allegedly operating without qualified pharmacists and allowing salesmen to dispense medicines, warning that the practice posed a serious risk to public health.

Accompanied by drug inspectors, Sonia inspected several pharmacies in Naharlagun and Itanagar, reportedly examining documentation and highlighting the alleged absence of registered pharmacists at a number of establishments.

Amid rumours that an FIR had been registered in connection with the issue, Sonia later reached Naharlagun Police Station. However, there was no official confirmation from the police regarding the registration of any case. A large number of people, including members of the Pharmacy Union, gathered outside the police station as the situation unfolded.

The inspections were followed by the closure of several pharmacies across Naharlagun and Itanagar, leading to hardships for patients, particularly those requiring urgent medicines.

Meanwhile, the Arunachal Pradesh Chemist and Druggist Association (APCDA) dismissed reports of a statewide pharmacy shutdown and urged chemists to continue operations.

APCDA president Pawan Bagang described reports of a blanket closure as a "media stunt" that had created unnecessary panic among the public.

He appealed to all pharmacy owners to keep their establishments open and continue providing uninterrupted medical services.

Bagang also urged residents not to panic over rumours, assuring them that the supply of medicines and pharmacy services would remain unaffected across Arunachal Pradesh.