APROPOS the news item (Sept 15) regarding chemists` strike against the amendment of Punjab Drug Act 1976 and the DRAP Act 2012.

The amendments make the keeping of non-registered drugs (they are defined now as `spurious drugs`instead of sub-standard drugs) and not storing drugs at prescribed temperatures a non-bailable offence with enormous fines.

These amendments are necessary for the quality and safety of drug products. This is good for patients, good for the quality of drugsand asaconsequence,goodforthe increase ofdrugexports.

Nevertheless, all stakeholders like PPMA and Pharmacists Association should have been consulted by the authorities before making these amendments. Perhaps the fines at the beginning should not be so enormous, and some time be given, so that the pharmacies and drug stores make proper arrangements for storage at prescribed temperatures, etc.

Resorting to strikes and closing pharmacies amount to putting the health of patients at risk. One is pained to see how a good intention in itself is brought down by strikes and protests.

Dr Syed Laik Ali International Pharmaceutical Consultant Germany