New Delhi: Shiv Charan, a 72-year-old resident of Sangam Vihar in South Delhi, tragically lost his life due to a respiratory problem. Because of financial constraints, Shiv often visited a local quack instead of a qualified doctor. The quack charged Rs 200 per consultation and provided medicine that seemed to satisfy his patients. However, when Shiv’s condition worsened one morning, the quack advised that he be taken to a hospital. Unfortunately, while being rushed to the hospital, Shiv collapsed and passed away in the autorickshaw.

Quacks are rampant in Delhi, leaving the city vulnerable to their practices. Despite the government’s efforts to curb the crisis, the problem has worsened, with estimates suggesting that around 50,000 quacks are operating in the city. However, the exact figure remains unclear.

According to Dr. Girish Tyagi, President of the Delhi Medical Association (DMA), the association’s anti-quackery cell conducts regular surveys to identify quacks and checks whether homeopathic doctors are practicing allopathy, which is illegal. When wrongdoing is detected, a list of quacks with their names and addresses is sent to the Delhi Medical Council, which then shares the information with 13 Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs). If a doctor is found practicing without proper qualifications, they are served a notice under Section 27 of the Delhi Medical Council Act, which can lead to a fine of Rs 20,000, up to three years of imprisonment, and a non-bailable warrant.

Dr. Girish Tyagi, President of the Delhi Medical Association (DMA)

However, Dr. Tyagi strongly criticized the system, saying, “If a quack is practicing, how are they getting medicines in bulk without any hindrance? There’s a gang operating that ensures quacks and other unqualified practitioners get medicines and medical equipment.”

He pointed out that Bhagirath Place is a hub where quacks and unqualified practitioners obtain medicines in bulk without licenses. The Drug Controller of India has conducted raids, but due to a lack of manpower, they are unable to perform their duties effectively.

Rajesh Jalhotra, a resident of Khanpur in Delhi, shared his experience with a local Bengali doctor who charges Rs 50 for treating day-to-day problems like fever and cough. Rajesh, a tuberculosis patient, was previously treated at Mehrauli TB Hospital but turned to the Bengali doctor when his symptoms returned. “He didn’t require any new X-rays or tests and prescribed medicine for Rs 100,” Rajesh said. “After taking it for a week, I recovered and returned to work.”

Quacks have mushroomed in Delhi, particularly in JJ clusters and unauthorized colonies. The Anti-Quackery Cell of the Delhi Medical Council appears inactive, with no visible action being taken. Dr. Anil Bansal, a notable figure in the fight against quackery, stated that the local government has not made any significant progress in this direction for nearly 20 years. He recalled a Delhi High Court notice issued on May 31, 2014, directing the government to take action against quacks after a patient died while being treated by one.

Dr. Jaipal, an ENT specialist, noted that quacks are a ticking time bomb in Delhi, operating without fear of the law. “Especially in unauthorized colonies and JJ clusters, the problem is more pertinent,” he said. “And police, hand in glove with quacks, are adding to the misery.”

Dr. Neena Katoch (MD) observed that the number of quacks operating in Delhi and the NCR has increased, with thousands practicing in various specialties such as dentistry and even conducting illegal abortions. “Normal physicians charge Rs 7–8 thousand for abortions, while quacks do it for just Rs 1,500,” she said. “This is why hundreds of abortions are conducted by quacks in Delhi alone.”

When speaking to The Indian Medical Association (IMA) President Bhanushali, he said, “We strongly condemn quackery, considering it a serious threat to public health—particularly when politicians or government officials support or legitimize unqualified medical practitioners.”

He further explained that, for instance, the IMA condemned Telangana Congress leader Prof. Kodandaram for advocating the recognition of quacks, warning of legal consequences and strong protests. The IMA has demanded strict legal action against quacks, urging the government to protect public health. They have also filed writ petitions in courts, leading to orders stating that only registered doctors can practice medicine. The IMA has launched nationwide campaigns against quackery, including a “Satyagraha Walk” in New Delhi. They plan to work with the administration and police to take action against quacks and encourage people to lodge complaints.

Quackery is prevalent in both rural and urban areas, with 75% of fake doctors operating in cities like Hyderabad. This challenges the common assumption that quackery is more widespread in rural areas due to a shortage of qualified doctors, he said.

The dangers of quackery include the indiscriminate prescription of antibiotics, leading to severe health complications and organ failures. The IMA President emphasized the urgent need for a regulatory system to control quackery and protect public health.

The Delhi High Court and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) have issued guidelines to help identify quacks and initiate criminal prosecution against offenders. In 2023, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Delhi High Court, citing the rise of quacks operating in the city. However, the court noted that the Delhi Medical Council and the Indian Medical Association had made only limited progress in solving this menace.

(Cover Representational Image. Credit: https://thehealthcaredaily.com/growing-quackery-in-india/)