A local court in Surat has convicted a man for fraud after he allegedly practised as a homoeopathic doctor for over sixteen years using fake educational credentials. The court sentenced the accused to three years of imprisonment, highlighting growing concerns over unqualified practitioners in the healthcare system.
Accused Used Fake BHMS Degree for Over a Decade
The 38-year-old accused, a resident of Dindoli in Surat and originally from Jaunpur, was found to have been practising medicine with forged documents. Investigations revealed that he possessed a fake Bachelor of Homoeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) degree along with fabricated mark sheets and certificates.
The documents were allegedly claimed to be issued by B.R. Ambedkar University, but were later confirmed to be fraudulent.
Court Refuses Leniency, Cites Rising Cases of Quackery
While delivering the verdict, the court observed that the prosecution had successfully proved the case beyond reasonable doubt under the provisions of the Indian Evidence Act.
The judge also raised serious concerns over the increasing number of unqualified individuals practising medicine, stating that such offenders often escape punishment due to lack of evidence. Given the seriousness of the offence, the court denied the accused any benefit of probation.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
The accused was initially arrested on May 11, 2009, after Limbayat police uncovered the fake certificates during an investigation. He was booked under Sections 465, 468, and 471 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deal with forgery and use of forged documents.
A chargesheet was filed in the Surat District Court on September 25, 2009, after which he was released on bail pending trial.
Prosecution Welcomes Verdict
Assistant Public Prosecutor A T Parmar expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, stating that the judgment reinforces accountability and sends a strong message against fraudulent medical practices.
The case was heard in the court of Additional Senior Civil Judge Jitendra Singh, with prosecutors P.D. Damor and A.T. Parmar representing the state, while the accused was defended by G.M. Lakhera.
