GUWAHATI, Nov 11: Police and the health department intensified their drive against unqualified medical practitioners in Assam, arresting five suspected fake doctors from different parts of the state over the past four days.
The Anti-Quackery and Vigilance Cell under the Assam Council of Medical Registration has been conducting the drive in coordination with Assam Police. The cell has acted against unqualified practitioners, those using fake certificates and persons working as specialists without the required qualifications.
The special cell was formed in January 2025. Between January 2025 and October 2026, 115 cases were registered against alleged fake doctors in the state, an official of the cell said.
During the period, 89 accused were arrested, while 15 others remained absconding, the official said.
There have been allegations that unqualified persons were working as doctors at pharmacies, private medical centres and hospitals in different parts of the state. Some were accused of using fake medical certificates or the registration numbers of other doctors.
People in rural and tea garden areas faced a higher risk of being deceived by such practitioners. Treatment by unqualified persons could pose a serious risk to patients' health and lives.
The authorities have also focused on checking documents of medical institutions and the qualifications of doctors. The drive will continue in the coming days.
A public interest litigation seeking action against fake doctors has been pending before the Gauhati High Court since 2023. The petition seeks an end to unqualified medical practice and protection for patients.
