Assam CM Issues Warning on Medical Malpractice and Quackery

Concerns Over Medical Malpractice in Assam

Silchar, Oct 25: The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has raised alarms regarding the increasing issue of medical malpractice within the state, emphasizing the dangers posed by unqualified medical practitioners.

During a press conference in Silchar on Friday, he pointed out the disturbing trend of fake doctors, many of whom possess degrees from unrecognized foreign institutions and do not meet the qualifications set by the National Medical Commission (NMC).

Sarma remarked, “The presence of quacks is not confined to Silchar; they are widespread throughout Assam. This remains a persistent challenge.”

He acknowledged that while regulations exist to oversee the healthcare sector, there is a pressing need for rigorous and ongoing enforcement.

The Chief Minister noted that Cachar Police have apprehended 14 individuals engaged in illegal medical practices, marking a crucial step in the state's efforts to combat quackery.

With over two lakh individuals employed in Assam's healthcare sector, Sarma urged administrators of private hospitals and medical colleges to be vigilant and uphold medical standards.

He also called on the public to report any suspicious practitioners, highlighting concerns about fraudulent laboratories, unnecessary prescriptions, and exploitative diagnostic tests targeting vulnerable patients.

Sarma emphasized, “While the police and district administrations are responding promptly, public vigilance is essential to eliminate every loophole.”

On Thursday, Cachar Police arrested a key suspect, Jayanta Prasad Das, who is believed to be the mastermind behind a significant fake medical degree operation that has been active for nearly two decades, operating under the guise of alternative medicine.

Cachar Superintendent of Police Numal Mahatta confirmed that this arrest is the 14th in the district as part of the ongoing crackdown on quacks and illegitimate medical establishments.