Traders clash in Dibrugarh over shutdown call

Dibrugarh: Chaos and confusion gripped Dibrugarh on Wednesday as a bitter divide between two medicine dealers’ associations over a nationwide strike against e-pharmacies led to tension across the town, leaving residents scrambling for essential medicines.The controversy erupted after the Dibrugarh Medicine Dealers Association (DMDA) announced a complete shutdown of pharmacies in support of the nationwide protest called by the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD). The strike was aimed at opposing the growing influence of online medicine delivery platforms and alleged unregulated e-pharmacy operations, which local traders claim are severely affecting retail businesses.However, the situation took a dramatic turn when another organisation, the Dibrugarh Medical Drug Dealers Association (DMDDA), publicly distanced itself from the strike and appealed to pharmacy owners to keep their establishments open. The conflicting statements triggered widespread uncertainty among both traders and customers throughout the district.As confusion deepened, tension reportedly escalated in several parts of Dibrugarh, with allegations surfacing that some pharmacy owners who attempted to keep their shops open were pressured and allegedly forced to shut down by supporters backing the strike call.Members of the Dibrugarh Medical Drug Dealers Association accused certain groups of creating an atmosphere of intimidation and questioned the role of the administration over alleged pressure on shopkeepers. The association claimed that several willing traders were prevented from operating their businesses freely. “We are opposed to the coercive atmosphere that is being created in the town. Traders who wish to remain open have every right to do so,” said a senior member of the Dibrugarh Medical Drug Dealers Association.Meanwhile, a large number of pharmacies across the town remained shut for most of the day, severely affecting the availability of medicines. Many people were seen rushing to medical stores early in the morning fearing a complete disruption in access to essential drugs.