A 12-year-old boy from Diva in Maharashtra’s Thane district has died after allegedly receiving treatment from a bogus doctor operating without recognised medical qualifications. Authorities have registered a criminal case against the accused, who is currently absconding, and have intensified efforts to crack down on unregistered medical practitioners across the city.
Child Succumbed After Home Treatment by Unqualified Practitioner
According to officials, the boy was initially treated for fever at a government hospital in Dombivli. However, when his condition failed to improve, his family allegedly contacted a self-proclaimed doctor who visited their residence on May 26 and administered treatment at home.
The accused reportedly informed the family that the medicines prescribed earlier were suitable only for younger children. He then allegedly administered medication intravenously through a saline drip.
Seizures During Infusion Led to Emergency Hospitalisation
During the second infusion, the child allegedly suffered seizures, prompting family members to rush him to a private hospital. Due to the seriousness of his condition, he was later shifted to KEM Hospital for advanced treatment.
Despite medical intervention, the boy succumbed to his condition on June 1.
TMC Inquiry Reveals Alleged Illegal Medical Practice
Following the incident, the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) launched an investigation into the case. Health officials reportedly discovered that the accused had no recognised medical degree, no registered clinic, and was allegedly practicing medicine illegally.
A joint operation conducted by the TMC Health Department and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) resulted in the seizure of medicines, injections, and other medical supplies from a location where the accused was reportedly treating patients.
Authorities Register Case, Hunt for Accused
Speaking on the matter, Dr. Prasad Patil, Head of the TMC Health Department, stated that the accused remains absconding and lacked the necessary qualifications and legal documentation required to practice medicine.
A case has been registered under the Maharashtra Medical Practitioners Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Authorities have launched a search operation to locate and apprehend the accused.
TMC Intensifies Crackdown on Bogus Doctors
In the wake of the incident, the Thane Municipal Corporation has accelerated its city-wide verification drive targeting unregistered medical practitioners.
Officials revealed that 1,481 practitioners have been verified over the past two months. Of these, 24 have been identified as suspected bogus doctors, while six cases have been prioritised for detailed investigation. FIRs have already been registered against three practitioners.
According to officials, more than 40% of the suspected cases were detected in Diva, Mumbra, and Shil areas, where large slum populations reside.
Public Health Concerns Rise
The tragic death has once again highlighted the dangers posed by unqualified medical practitioners and the need for stricter enforcement against illegal medical practice. Health authorities have urged citizens to verify the credentials of healthcare providers before seeking treatment and to report suspicious medical activities to local authorities.
