Odisha Medicine Shops to Shut on May 20 in UCDA Strike Against Online Sales

Bhubaneswar, May 13: All medicine shops across Odisha will shut down on May 20, 2026, following a statewide strike called by the Utkal Chemists and Druggists Association (UCDA).

The association, representing nearly 30,000 traders and supporting around 2.5 lakh families, is protesting against the growing trend of online medicine sales.

UCDA leaders argue that online drug and cosmetic sales are not legally permitted under current rules, yet authorities have failed to enforce restrictions.

They warn that unchecked e‑commerce in pharmaceuticals threatens the livelihood of traditional chemists and their employees.

The association has cautioned that if the government does not intervene, they will intensify their agitation in the coming months.

The May 20 shutdown is expected to significantly impact medicine availability across the state.