Is Assam Winning the Fight Against Fake Doctors?
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Synopsis
Authorities in Assam are intensifying their crackdown on fraudulent medical practitioners. With multiple arrests in recent days, including a doctor with fake credentials from Kazakhstan, the state's commitment to public health is clear. This article explores the ongoing challenges and measures being implemented to ensure the safety of patients.
Key Takeaways
- Assam is actively combating fraudulent medical practices.
- Recent arrests highlight the need for vigilance in healthcare.
- Citizens are encouraged to verify medical qualifications.
- A dedicated anti-quackery unit has been established for enforcement.
- Public health risks are significant due to these fraudulent activities.
Guwahati, Sep 9 (NationPress) In a significant move, Assam authorities have arrested another fraudulent medical practitioner in the Silchar district, contributing to a rising number of quacks apprehended statewide.
A senior police official confirmed on Tuesday that Pankaj Choudhury was taken into custody from a private hospital located in the Ghungoor area of Silchar late Monday night.
Choudhury allegedly acquired a forged medical certificate from a hospital in Kazakhstan, along with a counterfeit MD certificate.
"We are investigating how he was able to practice at a private facility with these fraudulent documents," stated the police.
An ongoing investigation is in progress. This latest arrest is part of a series of similar incidents reported in recent weeks.
In Kokrajhar, authorities detained Anisur Rahman, who had joined the National Mobile Medical Unit on September 1 using a fake MBBS certificate.
Rahman, hailing from Bongaigaon district, reportedly possesses only a homoeopathy degree.
A case has been filed against him under various legal provisions. Additionally, in Silchar, two more suspects - Kamrul Islam and Tinku Mazumder - were arrested for allegedly impersonating dentists. Their arrests were prompted by a complaint from the Indian Dental Association, with Cachar Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta confirming that investigations are ongoing.
Another incident occurred in Charaideo district, where Abhishek Shah, employed at the Naharhabi tea estate hospital, was discovered to be operating as a fraudulent doctor while also practicing in several pharmacies at Lakwa.
His arrest followed a complaint from the Anti-Quackery and Vigilance Officer of the Assam Council of Medical Registration.
In January, the Assam government established a dedicated unit—the anti-quackery and vigilance cell—that collaborates closely with the Assam Police.
The surge in arrests has raised alarms regarding the prevalence of fake doctors in Assam, with officials cautioning about significant risks to public health.
Authorities have urged the public to verify the qualifications of health professionals and to report any suspicious activities immediately.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of patient safety and the need for rigorous checks on medical practitioners. The recent wave of arrests in Assam highlights a critical issue affecting public health. It is imperative for citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to ensure the integrity of our healthcare system.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is Assam taking against fake doctors?
Assam has established an anti-quackery and vigilance cell working in coordination with the police to investigate and arrest fraudulent medical practitioners.
How can citizens verify a doctor's credentials?
Citizens are urged to check the qualifications and licenses of medical professionals through official medical boards or registration bodies.
What are the consequences for practicing without a valid license in Assam?
Practicing medicine without a valid license can lead to legal action, including arrest and prosecution under various sections of the law.
Why is this issue important for public health?
The presence of fake doctors poses serious risks to patient safety, as they may provide inadequate or harmful treatments, jeopardizing public health.
What should I do if I suspect a doctor is fraudulent?
Report any suspicions to local authorities or the appropriate medical registration board immediately, as this helps protect the community.
