The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) has escalated its long-standing campaign against illegal online pharmacies by directly appealing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for urgent intervention. In a letter signed by President J.S. Shinde and General Secretary Rajiv Singhal, the organization representing more than 12 lakh licensed chemists and druggists calls for the immediate closure of platforms operating outside legal bounds, citing direct links to India’s escalating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crisis.

The plea references the Prime Minister’s recent Mann Ki Baat address, where he highlighted ICMR findings on unchecked antibiotic misuse. AIOCD argues that illegal e-pharmacies exacerbate this by enabling self-medication: “The indiscriminate use of antibiotics through self-medication is reducing the effectiveness of treatments for common infections, including pneumonia and urinary tract infections.”

Key accusations include:

Violation of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, by supplying Schedule H/H1 drugs without legitimate prescriptions.

Misuse of telemedicine guidelines, where brief, unfamiliar consultations lead to prescriptions based solely on oral requests.

Inadequate enforcement despite the Delhi High Court’s observation that e-pharmacies are illegal.

AIOCD warns that delays risk treatment failures, overburdened healthcare infrastructure, and soaring costs urging: “Antibiotics should only be used when supported by a valid medical prescription.”

The organization extends an offer for “structured cooperation” with authorities to ensure compliance, positioning licensed chemists as partners in safeguarding public health.

This letter builds on AIOCD’s prior advocacy, including demands to withdraw draft notifications (GSR 817/E and 220/E) perceived as enabling unregulated sales. It reflects ongoing tensions between traditional retail chemists and digital platforms amid India’s booming but controversial e-pharmacy segment.