What Steps is Maharashtra Taking Against Bogus Doctors?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Maharashtra is confronting the troubling issue of bogus doctors with decisive actions and strict regulations. Minister Hasan Mushrif disclosed that 343 offences were reported in two years, with the government taking significant steps to ensure public safety. This article delves into the measures being implemented to protect citizens from fraudulent medical practices.
Key Takeaways
- 343 offences related to bogus doctors recorded in Maharashtra.
- Government is implementing strict measures for public safety.
- Dedicated search committees have been established.
- Legal actions are being taken against unauthorized practitioners.
- Standard Operating Procedures to prevent newborn theft are in place.
Mumbai, July 7 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Minister for Medical Education, Hasan Mushrif, revealed to the State Legislative Council on Monday that the government is implementing stringent measures to combat the alarming rise of bogus doctors.
A staggering total of 343 offences have been recorded throughout the state in 2023 and 2024—178 in 2023 and 165 in 2024, he disclosed.
In response to a query from Shiv Sena legislator Kripal Tumane, the Minister highlighted that 121 of these cases are currently pending in court, while police investigations are active for the remaining cases.
He cited a recent incident in Khambala village of Chandrapur district, where an 11-year-old girl tragically passed away allegedly due to treatment by a fraudulent doctor. An FIR has been registered against the accused for practicing medicine without legitimate medical credentials or government approval.
To systematically address this issue, the government has established specialized search committees at district, taluka, municipal council, and municipal corporation levels.
Furthermore, district-level committees led by the District Magistrate have been formed to implement preventive and legal actions against such unauthorized practitioners, he noted.
The Minister stated that specific guidelines and advisories have been issued under Sections 33, 33(A), and 38 of the Maharashtra Medical Practitioners (Amendment) Act, 1961, empowering local authorities to take action.
He also pointed out that police are consistently submitting reports regarding actions taken as part of the government's crackdown on bogus medical practices.
In a separate written response to a question from BJP legislator Chitra Wagh, Mushrif mentioned that the government has also devised a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to avert incidents of newborn theft or kidnapping from government-operated medical colleges and hostels throughout the state.
The SOP is set to be implemented shortly, the Minister assured. He emphasized a recent case in Miraj where prompt police action resulted in the recovery of a kidnapped newborn from a government medical college within three days, successfully reuniting the baby with the mother.
Point of View
My perspective emphasizes the necessity of stringent measures against fraudulent medical practitioners. The alarming rise in bogus doctors poses a significant risk to public health. The government's proactive response is crucial in safeguarding citizens and restoring trust in our healthcare system. We must prioritize the protection of patients and hold accountable those who exploit their vulnerabilities.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the statistics on bogus doctors in Maharashtra?
In Maharashtra, a total of 343 offences related to bogus doctors were registered in 2023 and 2024, comprising 178 in 2023 and 165 in 2024.
What actions are being taken against bogus doctors?
The government has established search committees and district-level committees to address the issue, alongside issuing guidelines under the Maharashtra Medical Practitioners (Amendment) Act, 1961.
What recent incidents highlight the issue of bogus doctors?
A tragic case in Khambala village resulted in the death of an 11-year-old girl allegedly due to treatment by a fake doctor, leading to legal action against the accused.
How is the government preventing newborn theft from medical facilities?
A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is being implemented to prevent incidents of newborn theft or kidnapping from government-run medical colleges and hostels.
What role does the police play in tackling this issue?
The police are actively filing reports on actions taken to combat bogus medical practices and ensure accountability.
