Ludhiana, Oct. 26 -- Chemists in Ludhiana have begun returning their existing stocks of narcotic and psychotropic medicines to wholesalers and distributors following the Punjab Chemists Association's call to stop selling these medicines from October 25. The association, which has alleged harassment by authorities during intensified raids, reaffirmed its decision during a meeting on Sunday, maintaining that sales would remain suspended until the government addresses its concerns over sudden inspections and action over discrepancies in stock records.

These medicines are prescribed for conditions such as anxiety, post-operative pain and muscle tension. While registered chemists are legally permitted to dispense them against valid physical p...