Pune: Chemists’ Associations Warn Government Against Illegal Online Medicine Sales; Demand Ban on E-Pharmacies
Pune, 18th August 2025: The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), along with the Pune Chemists’ Association, has raised strong objections against the illegal online sale of medicines and issued a stern warning to the government. The associations have demanded an immediate ban on e-pharmacy companies offering “10-minute medicine delivery,” citing serious risks to public health.
According to the chemists, misuse of medicines through online platforms has already risen by nearly 55 percent, and their adverse effects could become more evident in the coming years. They further alleged that several companies engaged in online drug sales are operating without valid licenses, and many medicines are being sold without mandatory doctor prescriptions.
Concerns have also been raised about the source and storage conditions of these medicines. The associations alleged that even abortion pills are being sold online without proper regulation. Despite clear violations of rules, no stringent action has been taken against these companies, they claimed.
In a formal representation to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, AIOCD president Jagannath Shinde and secretary Rajiv Singhal stressed that online medicine sales have not been granted official approval. As per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines and the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, medicines must only be sold under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist.
Echoing these concerns, Anil Belkar, president of Pune District Chemists’ Association, warned that if incorrect or unsafe medicines are dispensed through such unregulated platforms, the consequences for public health could be disastrous.
