Bengaluru: In a major crackdown on unqualified medical practitioners, the Karnataka health department has taken action against 967 fake doctors across the state over the past 18 months. Authorities have issued notices, shut down clinics, and filed legal cases against those practicing medicine without proper qualifications.
According to official data, between September 2023 and January 2025, health officials uncovered a large number of unauthorized medical practitioners operating illegally. As of February 2025, the health department has:
- Issued notices to 449 fake doctors
- Shut down 228 clinics
- Seized 167 clinics
- Imposed fines on 96 individuals
- Filed over 70 legal cases in different district courts
Districts with the Most Cases
The highest number of fake doctors were found in:
- Bidar – 213 cases
- Kolar – 115 cases
- Tumakuru – 112 cases
According to Dr. Vivek Dorai, Deputy Director of the Karnataka health department, border districts like Bidar and Kolar are more vulnerable to such illegal practices due to infiltration from neighboring states and lack of proper healthcare infrastructure.
Who Are the Fake Doctors?
The health department has identified multiple types of offenders, including:
- Individuals practicing medicine without registration under the Karnataka Private Medical Establishments (KPME) Act
- People engaging in cross-practice, treating patients outside their field of expertise
- Traditional healers and acupuncturists without recognized medical qualifications
- Former hospital support staff (D-group employees) who set up unauthorized clinics using forged documents
Legal Consequences
Authorities have warned of strict legal action against unqualified practitioners. As per the law:
- Severe offenses, such as fake doctors performing risky medical procedures, can result in:
- Fines up to ₹1 lakh
- Imprisonment for up to three years
- Lesser violations typically lead to monetary fines, though cases may be challenged in higher courts.
Government’s Continued Efforts
The Karnataka health department has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating fake doctors and protecting public health. Officials have promised regular inspections and strict enforcement to prevent unqualified individuals from practicing medicine in the state.
