Punjab Chemists Association protests government crackdown on chemists

The Punjab Chemists Association organised a demonstration in Amritsar to voice its opposition to the latest government measures that tighten regulations on retail chemists. Representatives of the association gathered outside the state health department, holding placards that called for an immediate rollback of the restrictions, which they say threaten the livelihood of thousands of small‑scale pharmacists.

Association officials argued that the new rules, introduced without prior consultation, impose excessive paperwork and price controls that could disrupt the supply of essential medicines. They urged the state government to adopt a more collaborative approach, emphasizing the need to balance public health objectives with the economic realities of chemist owners.

The protest also included a formal petition demanding a review of the policy and a meeting with senior officials to discuss possible amendments. While the government has not yet responded publicly, the association warned that continued pressure could lead to broader actions across the state.