By Mukesh 
The Andhra Pradesh Chemists and Druggists Association (APCDA) has appealed to the public to buy their regular medicines in advance, ahead of a nationwide bandh on May 20, 2026.
The bandh was called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists, a body representing 12.4 lakh chemists and druggists across the country, in protest against the State’s inaction against e-pharmacies, which the body termed a matter of serious concern, and the predatory pricing and deep discounting practices of large pharmaceutical companies.
Addressing a media conference on Wednesday (May 13, 2026), APCDA President P.V. Ratnam also demanded the withdrawal of emergency notifications issued during the Covid-19 pandemic, when requirements such as producing the original prescription and other legal safeguards were relaxed.
Describing the bandh as an inevitable step to bring pressure on the government to safeguard the livelihood of druggists, the members cautioned the public to stock up on their required medicines in advance.