The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has extended its support to the Central Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) over its statewide withdrawal of routine medical services from August 5, 2026. The association has urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to immediately halt the proposed registration of Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology (CCMP)-certified BHMS practitioners with the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC), expressing concerns over patient safety and the institutionalisation of cross-practice.
FAIMA Extends Support to Doctors’ Protest
In a letter dated August 5, 2026, addressed to the Chief Minister, FAIMA expressed its full support for Central MARD’s decision to undertake a statewide withdrawal of routine medical services.
The association stated that the protest followed repeated representations, discussions, and attempts at constructive dialogue with the authorities, which failed to resolve the concerns raised by the medical fraternity.
According to FAIMA, the decision to protest was adopted as a peaceful and democratic measure after other avenues had been exhausted.
Concerns Raised Over CCMP Registration and Cross-Practice
FAIMA reiterated the concerns raised by Central MARD regarding the proposed registration of CCMP-certified BHMS practitioners with the Maharashtra Medical Council and the introduction of policies that could facilitate cross-practice.
The association stated that permitting practitioners to work beyond the scope of their formally recognised training could compromise evidence-based medical practice, affect patient safety, and weaken public confidence in the healthcare system.
It clarified that its objections were not directed against any recognised system of medicine but against the proposed integration of different systems in a manner that, according to the association, could pose risks to patient welfare.
Demands Placed Before the State Government
FAIMA urged the Maharashtra Government to immediately suspend the proposed registration of CCMP-certified BHMS practitioners with the Maharashtra Medical Council until the matter is appropriately addressed.
The association also sought a clear assurance that no administrative or regulatory mechanism would be used to legitimise cross-practice beyond the legally recognised scope of any system of medicine.
In addition, FAIMA called for meaningful discussions with Central MARD and other representatives of the medical fraternity to resolve the ongoing concerns, including long-pending issues affecting resident doctors.
Background to the Dispute
The controversy began after the Maharashtra Government initiated the process of granting Maharashtra Medical Council registration to BHMS practitioners who had completed the Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology.
The proposal was opposed by allopathic doctors’ organisations, which argued that it could blur statutory boundaries between recognised systems of medicine and raise concerns regarding patient safety.
Subsequently, the State Government constituted a six-member committee to define the competencies, ethical framework, and Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for negligence cases involving CCMP-certified BHMS practitioners proposed to be registered with the Maharashtra Medical Council. The committee has been directed to submit its recommendations within one month.
FAIMA Calls for Early Resolution
FAIMA urged the Chief Minister to reconsider the proposed policy, engage with stakeholders, and take timely action to resolve the ongoing impasse.
The association stated that an early and decisive intervention by the State Government would help restore confidence in the healthcare system while addressing the concerns raised by the medical community.
Important Highlights
- FAIMA has supported Central MARD’s statewide withdrawal of routine medical services from August 5, 2026.
- The association has urged the Maharashtra Government to halt the proposed MMC registration of CCMP-certified BHMS practitioners.
- FAIMA expressed concerns that cross-practice could affect patient safety and the integrity of evidence-based medicine.
- The association has called for meaningful dialogue with medical organisations and a resolution of pending issues affecting resident doctors.
- The Maharashtra Government has already constituted a committee to examine the competencies and regulatory framework for CCMP-certified BHMS practitioners.
