Chemists' strike successful in Rajasthan

Over 25,000 chemists in Rajasthan went on strike on Wednesday against the Centre's move to allow the sale of medicines on the internet.

"The strike has been completely successful as 25,000-30,000 chemists spread across the state observed a complete bandh today (Wednesday)," Dhanpat Sethia, secretary of Rajasthan Chemists' Association, told IANS.

He said business of an estimated Rs.30-35 crore was affected due to the strike.

The state government had made arrangements to counter the situation by declaring that 350 medicine shops run by the department of cooperatives would remain open and long queues were seen in front of these shops. But people complained that not all medicines were available.

"I am suffering from viral fever and some of the medicines recommended to me by my doctor are not available at these shops. I must have visited 5-7 cooperative shops so far," Lala Ram Meena said.

"This strike has really troubled patients. It is happening at a time when large number of seasonal disease cases like dengue and malaria are being reported," said a doctor, who did not wish to be named.