Tamil Nadu Assures Uninterrupted Medical Services During Nationwide Pharmacy Bandh

Chennai, May 2026 : The Tamil Nadu government on Tuesday assured the public that essential healthcare and medicine supply services would continue without disruption despite the nationwide “Bandh” called by pharmacy unions on May 20 to protest the Union government’s policies regarding online medicine sales.

Addressing reporters at the Secretariat in Chennai, Tamil Nadu Health Minister K.G. Arunraj said the state government had taken extensive precautionary measures to ensure uninterrupted access to medicines and emergency healthcare facilities across Tamil Nadu.

The minister stated that Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay had issued clear instructions to all concerned departments to make sure the public does not face any inconvenience during the one-day shutdown.

“Hospital-attached pharmacies will continue to function and will not participate in the Bandh. Private hospital pharmacies are also remaining operational. Nearly 5,000 pharmacies across the state will stay open to serve the public,” Arunraj said.

He added that the government has already deployed drug inspectors throughout the state to coordinate arrangements and maintain medicine supply chains. Discussions have also been held with various pharmacy associations to ensure smooth functioning during the protest period.

According to the minister, Tamil Nadu has nearly 50,000 pharmacies, and only a small section is expected to remain closed during the Bandh. The majority of medical shops are likely to continue operations, especially those attached to hospitals and emergency healthcare centres.

To strengthen emergency preparedness, district-level drug inspector coordinators have been designated, and the public can directly contact them in case of urgent medical requirements. Arunraj emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring uninterrupted access to life-saving drugs and essential medicines.

The protest has been called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists, which represents more than 12 lakh chemists across the country. The organisation has raised concerns over the rapid growth of online pharmacies, alleging inadequate regulation, heavy discounting practices, patient safety risks, and the unregulated sale of antibiotics and habit-forming medicines.

The Health Minister said the issue of online medicine sales originated from decisions taken by the Union government and noted that Tamil Nadu would continue to closely monitor the situation. He warned that strict action would be taken against any violations related to the online distribution of medicines in the state.

Arunraj also expressed concern over the growing use of Artificial Intelligence-generated prescriptions, saying the government has taken note of the matter and is working on safeguards to prevent misuse and protect patient safety.

On the political front, the minister reiterated the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam government’s opposition to the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET). He described NEET as an infringement on state rights and said Tamil Nadu would continue pressing the Union government to respect federal principles in medical admissions.

With coordinated efforts already underway, officials said Tamil Nadu remains prepared to minimise inconvenience and maintain uninterrupted healthcare services during the nationwide protest.