Pharmacists in Sangli, Maharashtra are protesting against strict FDA (Federal Drug Administration) regulation by shaving their heads. Drug stores in the area are open for only eight hours a day as another act of discontent against the FDA regulation. Owners of medical stores will shutter down pharmacies after eight hours on Wednesday since the protestors do not see a feasible resolution to the dispute with the FDA.

The FDA has stipulated that all pharmacies have at least one qualified pharmacist in drug stores. This comes against the backdrop of cheap drugs in India that are often sold at drug stores without prescriptions. The flexible nature of selling and buying dangerous drugs is poorly understood by the general public in India.

The existence of alternative medical therapies like Ayurveda and homeopathy have also given rise in self-medication and buying over the counter medication. The FDA intervenes on a regular basis to bring higher standards to the pharma industry. In India, medicine is dispensed carelessly and in most cases may be acquired with relative ease.

Nonetheless, prescribed doses by physicians and precise dispensing of drugs are crucial to improve the quality of treatment in India, ravaged by viral fever, dengue fever and a host of other illnesses during the monsoon season. An unawareness about proper nutritional requirements have also taken its toll on the health of children and the elderly.

On Tuesday the FDA closed down five wholesale drug stores in Aurangabad for not buying adequate amounts of medical supplies. This violates the MESMA (Maharashtra Essential Services Maintenance Act), according to FDA rules.

Viraj Paunikar told The Times of India, "We have asked all the 35 medical stores and chemists attached to hospitals in the city to remain open 24x7 and to keep adequate stock of medicines by giving them permission to purchase medicines directly from the manufacturers. Despite this, if anybody fails to get medicine, he or she can contact the drug inspector of their area, who will help them out." With Times of India report