Punjab Drug Act 2017: Medical stores remain shut on strike?s fourth day

LAHORE: Local medical stores remained closed on Sunday on the fourth consecutive day of strike imposed by Pakistan Chemists and Druggist Association (PCDA) against Punjab Drug Act 2017.The strike, which is being observed against the government-proposed amendment in the Drug Act, has led to closure of medical stores in various cities across Punjab, including Multan, Gujranwala, Kabirwala, Rajanpur, Mandi Bahauddin, Jhang and Bahawalpur. The strike is to continue reportedly till provincial government revokes enforcement of the amendment, informed various medical shop owners. Punjab Drug Act 2017 amendment that has caused resistance from medical shop owners had previously declared it mandatory for every medical shop to seat a certified pharmacist at all times, including maintenance of hygiene at all stores, failing which will subject them to heavy penalties. The amendment also announced increased penalties in case of fake medicines’ sales, leading to 3-10 years of imprisonment for manufacturing and selling unlicensed drugs that includes a fine of Rs.50 million.