In a significant ruling, the Karnataka High Court has ordered the state government to take decisive actions against clinics run by unqualified individuals posing as doctors, especially in rural areas. The directive issued by Justice M Nagaprasanna focuses on curbing the “unchecked proliferation” of such practices, which pose a substantial threat to public health.
During the proceedings, the court expressed severe criticism over the state’s failure to address the issue, which Justice Nagaprasanna described as “blissful ignorance.” The concern was particularly heightened by reports of unqualified persons deceiving patients by masquerading as healthcare professionals.
“These quacks are not only unlawfully practicing medicine but are jeopardizing the lives of innocent people in remote regions,” remarked Justice Nagaprasanna. The court’s stern directive comes in response to a petition filed by A A Muralidharswamy, who sought registration of his clinic under the Karnataka Private Medical Establishments Act, 2007, despite only possessing an SSLC (Class 10) certification and a dubious certificate from the Indian Board of Alternative Medicine.
Muralidharswamy, who also holds a Diploma in Community Medical Services with Essential Drugs, has been operating the ‘Sri Lakshmi Clinic’ in Mandya district for several years without any legitimate medical credentials. The court, upon examining his qualifications, declared them insufficient for medical practice under recognized systems such as Allopathy, Ayurveda, or Unani.
“The claim of being a doctor by the petitioner is a plain and simple misrepresentation,” the court concluded, dismissing Muralidharswamy’s petition and emphasizing the urgent need for government intervention to shut down such illegal establishments.
The High Court has instructed the Registry to forward its order to the Secretary of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, mandating the identification and closure of clinics operated by unqualified individuals and the submission of an action-taken report to the court.
