Pharmacies and drug stores in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad observed a strike on the call of the Punjab chapter of the Pakistan Chemists and Druggists Association against a stricter drug law promulgated by the Punjab government. Although the private pharmacies in the government-run hospitals remained open, the strike drew the ire of sick people at large for putting them in trouble. The government should repeal the controversial law. “Otherwise the chemists would observe strike for a longer period after Eidul Azha said Zahid Bakhtawari, the chairman of the Pakistan Chemist and Druggists Association. In its existing form the new law would increase unemployment in the country because those hit by it are shifting to other businesses, according to him. The amendments make the keeping of non-registered drugs (they are defined now as ‘spurious drugs’ instead of sub-standard drugs) and not storing drugs at prescribed temperatures a non-bailable offence with enormous fines. These amendments are necessary for the quality and safety of drug products. This is good for patients, good for the quality of drugs and as a consequence, good for the increase of drug exports.Nevertheless, all stakeholders like PPMA and Pharmacists Association should have been consulted by the authorities before making these amendments. Perhaps the fines at the beginning should not be so enormous, and some time be given, so that the pharmacies and drug stores make proper arrangements for storage at prescribed temperatures, etc.Resorting to strikes and closing pharmacies amount to putting the health of patients at risk. One is pained to see how a good intention in itself is brought down by strikes and protests.
pk.shafaqna.com
