Drugs and Food Control Organization issues public advisory in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of nationwide pharmacy strike
SRINAGAR, May 17 — In view of the nationwide bandh call given by the All India Organization of Chemists and Druggists on May 20, 2026, the Drugs and Food Control Organization of Jammu and Kashmir has issued a public advisory to ensure uninterrupted access to essential medicines and safeguard public health.
The nationwide strike has been called by the pharmacy association to highlight grievances related to the online sale of medicines and other associated industry concerns. In response, the department has sensitized its field machinery and personnel to maintain effective coordination with all stakeholders, ensuring that public safety, the availability of critical drugs, and the maintenance of law and order are not compromised during the strike period.
As a proactive measure, the department has advised patients suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, cardiac ailments, epilepsy, and cancer to procure their regular and emergency medicines in advance if they are not already available. While urging the public to arrange for necessary life-saving drugs, insulin, inhalers, and pediatric medicines beforehand, authorities simultaneously cautioned consumers against panic buying or unnecessary hoarding.
The public has been advised to purchase medicines only against valid prescriptions, cooperate with pharmacy staff, and contact nearby government hospitals or emergency medical services immediately in case of any medical crisis.Furthermore, specific precautionary guidelines have been issued to chemists and druggists, directing them to ensure peaceful participation in the bandh without disrupting emergency medical services. Retailers and wholesalers have been instructed to supply essential medicines during emergencies in the larger public interest and refrain from spreading rumors on social media.
Simultaneously, departmental officials have been directed to closely monitor medicine availability across the Union Territory, coordinate with district administrations and hospital networks to prevent shortages, and submit real-time supply reports to a dedicated central helpline.
To ensure patient safety and social harmony, local police authorities have also been requested to provide necessary support to prevent forced closures, intimidation, or any disturbance of public peace during the day of the protest.