Uttarakhand Launches Crackdown on Unregistered Doctors
Dehradun: The Uttarakhand government has launched a state-wide crackdown on unregistered medical practitioners as well as unauthorised clinics and diagnostic laboratories, following concerns over illegal medical practices across the state.
In a decisive move, the state’s Medical Health and Medical Education Department has instructed all District Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) to compile comprehensive records of doctors practising in their respective jurisdictions. The directive mandates that no medical practitioner, whether in the public or private sector, should be allowed to continue without current registration or renewal under the health department.
Health Secretary Dr. R Rajesh Kumar issued the order, citing the provisions of the National Medical Commission Act, 2019, which replaced the Indian Medical Council Act of 1956. The Act mandates that only registered doctors are legally permitted to offer medical services within the country, and each must be registered with the respective state’s health authority, reports the Daily.
Dr. Kumar further stated that the Medical Council has been instructed to provide updated lists of registered medical practitioners to all districts. Additionally, the names of individuals found practising without valid registration will be made public to ensure transparency and accountability. “The state government will strictly ensure transparency and accountability in health services. The department has been getting complaints against several doctors practising in the state without registration for years. This had raised questions on the quality of health services. Medical practices without valid registration with the state health department will not be permitted under any circumstances. CMOs across the state have been asked to identify the doctors working without registration in the state,” Health Secretary Dr R Rajesh Kumar told The Statesman.
Officials have confirmed that disciplinary action will be taken against those who fail to comply, reinforcing the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health through regulated medical practice. “This decision is not a mere formality but an effort to ensure public health safety and service quality. The government wants to ensure that no patient receives treatment from a doctor practising without registration. Action will be taken for non-compliance with instructions,” the health secretary stated.
