Drug traders federation warns of State-wide shutdown of medical stores after Deepawali

PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Ramnagar

The Uttarakhand Drug Traders Federation has threatened a State-wide shutdown of medical stores after Deepawali, accusing the State authorities of harassment following the deaths of children due to certain cough syrups in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. This and other decisions were taken in the federation’s executive meeting here on Thursday.

After expressing grief at the death of children, the members expressed strong objection to the recent inspections of medical stores being conducted in the presence of police personnel across the State. They stated that such actions not only tarnish the social reputation of pharmacists but also harm the cooperative relationship between traders and the department. The federation unanimously resolved to call for a State-wide shutdown after Deepawali if such actions continue.

Earlier, the federation president BS Mankoti stated that in compliance with the directives of the chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the Health Secretary, and the Food and Drug Administration, it has been decided that no cough syrup will be sold to children below four years of age, and for children above five years, it will only be dispensed on a doctor’s prescription.

General secretary Amit Garg instructed all pharmacists to maintain proper records of the purchase and sale of narcotic drugs at their establishments. The federation also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the state’s anti-drug campaign initiated by the CM.