Stop institutes from giving away fake MBBS degrees: CIC TO MCI

New Delhi: Expressing concern over quacks using fake MBBS degrees from an illegal institute, Central Information Commision has asked Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to take immediate action through MCI to stop the practice as it poses serious public threat.

During a hearing, Medical Council of India officials produced certain documents before Information Commissioner Yashovardhan Azad showing an institute by the name of Indian Board of Alternative Medicine, which has no official or legal sanctity and yet has been giving fake degrees for practice.

"...the matter which is truly alarming is the revelation by the Respondent (MCI) about the existence of the Institute by the name of Indian Board of Alternative Medicine with no official/legal sanctity and doctors are using such degree as 'MBBS (IAM)' for practice," Azad said.

The Commissioner said it was a matter of grave concern since public health is at high risk owing to these practitioners who have no proper knowledge or training to render medical assistance.

"In view of the seriousness of the issue, the Commission is of the considered opinion that a copy of this order may be sent to the Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to take immediate action through the MCI to curb this practice which is posing a threat to public health," he said.