IMA writes to CM for stricter action against quacks

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Ahmedabad : The Gujarat chapter of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has written to the state chief minister, urging stricter punishment for unauthorised allopathic medical practitioners and quacks due to the “life-threatening consequences” they pose. The letter states that under the existing provisions, there is only a Rs 500 penalty for the first offence, a Rs 500 fine and six month imprisonment for the second offence, and a Rs 2,000 penalty and/or two-year imprisonment or both for subsequent violations. The association said these punishment rules were framed in 1963, and it is high time these sentences were made stricter because unauthorised practitioners have no fear of getting caught. Earlier, the association wrote to the health commissioner, asking the state govt to take stringent action against unauthorised allopathic medical practitioners.

“We urgently bring to your kind attention the critical issue of the unauthorised practice of modern medicine by non-allopathic practitioners and quacks. This alarming trend poses an imminent threat to the health and safety of the people of Gujarat. Numerous reports of individuals without formal training in modern medicine providing allopathic treatments have surfaced, leading to dangerous and sometimes life-threatening consequences for unsuspecting patients,” the letter reads. “If this unlawful practice is not stopped immediately, it will lead to widespread health disasters,” the letter states.