Pharmacists and pharmacy students from across Manipur organised a peaceful sit-in protest in Imphal on June 13, voicing opposition to a proposed amendment to the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules and calling for the immediate conduct of the long-delayed Manipur State Pharmacy Council election.
The demonstration, organised by the Indian Pharmacist Association (IPA), Manipur State Branch, was held at the Keishampat Leimajam Leikai Community Hall between 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. Registered pharmacists, students and members of the pharmacy fraternity from different parts of the state participated in the programme.
A major concern raised by the protesters was the proposed amendment to Rule 64 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, which seeks to permit Science Graduates to function as “Competent Persons” in place of Registered Pharmacists. Participants argued that the role demands specialised pharmaceutical knowledge, professional training and practical expertise acquired through formal education and registration. They maintained that replacing qualified pharmacists with general science graduates could undermine professional standards and weaken the statutory responsibilities entrusted to pharmacists within the healthcare system.
The protesters also expressed concern over the delay in holding the Manipur State Pharmacy Council election, which was originally scheduled for September 2025. According to members of the profession, the prolonged postponement has deprived registered pharmacists of their right to representation and participation in the governance of the profession.
The agitation received support from several pharmacist bodies, including the Meitei-Pangal Registered Pharmacist Association of Manipur (MRPAM), the Manipur Pharmacist Association (MPA) and the Senapati District Registered Pharmacist Association. Representatives from pharmacy institutions and students also joined the demonstration.
Participants urged the Government of India and the concerned authorities to safeguard the professional role of qualified pharmacists and ensure that the State Pharmacy Council election is conducted without further delay.
The programme concluded peacefully, with the participants reiterating their commitment to preserving professional standards, ensuring democratic representation and strengthening quality healthcare services in the state.
