- Doctors warn of risks to Public Health and threaten strike on September 18
Article Today, Mumbai:
A recent decision by the Maharashtra government to allow homeopathy doctors to register with the State Medical Council has drawn sharp criticism from the Indian Medical Association ( IMA). The association said the order poses serious risks to public health and could undermine the credibility of the medical system. It alleged that the move reflected pressure from lobbying groups within the AYUSH sector. A case on the matter is also pending before the Bombay High Court.
Concerns Over Patient Safety
According to the IMA, modern medicine requires rigorous training of five and a half years, covering 19 subjects, clinical practice, and internship. In contrast, homeopathy practitioners are being permitted to prescribe allopathic medicines after completing a one-year certificate course in modern pharmacology. Doctors argue that the limited training, which includes only two teaching days per week, cannot equip practitioners to prescribe safely. They warned that incorrect prescriptions, drug side effects, and growing antibiotic resistance could become serious problems, especially in rural areas.
Allegations of Systemic Dilution
The IMA also said the order could encourage similar demands from practitioners of Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems, leading to confusion in the country’s healthcare system. It argued that the directive violates norms set by the National Medical Commission and risks eroding the credibility of medical education. The association suggested that political considerations influenced the government’s decision and demanded its immediate withdrawal.
Call for Withdrawal and Strike Threat
The IMA has given the State government a deadline to withdraw the order. Failing that, it warned of a one-day strike across Maharashtra on September 18. During the 24-hour protest, health services would be suspended as a mark of opposition. In a statement, the IMA said the government bears responsibility for safeguarding public health and must reconsider its stand. The association expressed hope that the authorities would respond before the issue escalates further.
