Doctors Divided: Medical Council Registration Standoff

The Maharashtra government has postponed a decision regarding the registration of Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) doctors holding a Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology (CCMP) with the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC). This development occurred on Tuesday after a high-level meeting chaired by medical education minister Hasan Mushrif ended without clear directives for the MMC.

The government stated it would announce its stance on Wednesday, following a review of legal and administrative aspects. The anticipated registration process, scheduled to begin on July 27, remains stalled, leaving numerous doctors in uncertainty.

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) reiterated its opposition, supported by various allied medical organizations. Conversely, the CCMP Homoeopathic Doctors Association demands immediate registration, citing legislative changes in 2014 that permit CCMP-qualified BHMS practitioners to prescribe modern medicines after prescribed training.

Over 12,000 eligible doctors across Maharashtra are reportedly awaiting MMC registration, impacting their careers. The CCMP Homoeopathic Doctors Association has threatened indefinite protests outside the MMC office starting Wednesday if registrations are not initiated promptly, with broader statewide agitations planned.

Medical fraternity groups, including Central MARD, have requested the government to await the Bombay High Court's decision, with the next hearing scheduled for August 14. MARD opposes granting registration to BHMS practitioners and warns of statewide protests, potentially including a withdrawal of services, if the government proceeds before the court's verdict.

The Maharashtra Medical Council president confirmed that no specific directions have been issued by the medical education department, but registration will commence once government directives are received.