Mysore:  The State Pharmacists Association has demanded filling up of vacant pharmacy posts in the Health Department.

Addressing a press meet here yesterday, Association State President B.S. Desai said that there were many pharmacist vacant posts in the Health Department which have not been filled since many years.

Claiming that unqualified persons were dispensing medicines at Government hospitals which is causing a serious impact on the health of patients, he alleged that pharmacists are being ignored in the appointment to key posts.

Demanding action against unqualified pharmacists working at pharmacy shops, Desai wanted the Government to issue an order making it mandatory for dispensation of medicines only through qualified pharmacists. He also wanted the authorities to ensure that medicines are stored in required temperatures.

Association office-bearers Vijayalakshmi, Shivanand Dalwai, Somashekar, V. Manjunath, Srikantaiah and others  were present.