Medical stores closed in Peshawar

Pakistan Chemist and Druggist Association protest against health department's imposition of Drugs Rules 2017

Medical stores in Peshawar announced a citywide strike to protest the health department's imposition of Drugs Rules 2017 on Tuesday, which they claim is affecting their sales.

The strike is an impediment for locals who are unable to purchase prescribed medicines.

The Pakistan Chemist and Druggist Association (PCDA) issued a notice, detesting Khyber -Pakhtunkhwa health department's decision to repeal the Drug Rules 1982 by making amendments and enacting Drugs Rules 2017.



The association terms the decision an unlawful act which is harming the dignity and business interest of shopkeepers.

PHOTO: UMER FAROOQ

It says that Drug Rules 2017 is oppressive as it obscures the issuance and the renewal of sales licenses.

The notification says that "by selling the shops, dignity of respected shopkeepers is being harmed and they are being forced into unemployment."



It also mentions that despite holding several meetings with the health department, no consensus could be reached as department officials have an insincere and unwavering stance.

The notice further directed all affected parties to call a strike to make their demands heard.

Earlier, a provincial meeting was called by the PCDA on May 11. The meeting was chaired by Central Chairperson PCDA, Syed Sirajuin.

The meeting was also attended by other members who clamored that if the Drug Rules 2017 was not reversed by Monday, a strike would be called on Tuesday for an indefinite period of time.