Fake MBBS Degree, Misuse of Wife’s Registration Number Exposed; GPA Slams Systemic Failure
Thiruvananthapuram: In a significant victory for the medical community, a fake medical practitioner who posed as both a doctor and a nurse across hospitals in Kozhikode and Wayanad has been arrested following a two-year legal campaign led by the General Practitioners Association (GPA).
The accused, a Perambra resident, was taken into custody by Ambalavayal police in Wayanad. He allegedly used forged credentials, including a fake MBBS degree from Pariyaram Medical College and a fraudulent registration number, to secure employment in multiple hospitals.
Exposed by Estranged Wife, a Registered Doctor
The case came to light when his estranged wife, a registered medical professional, filed a complaint with the GPA’s anti-quackery cell, revealing that he had been illegally using her registration number to support his forged identity.
“He was so brazen, he didn’t even try to run,” said Dr Ashik Basheer, GPA State President.
Kerala High Court Steps In After Inaction by Authorities
Despite the GPA submitting evidence to both the police and the district medical officer over two years ago, authorities allegedly failed to act until the association moved the Kerala High Court. The writ petition filed by GPA criticised the Kerala State Medical Council (KSMC) for delayed and inadequate action, forcing the Council to respond only after being named in the case.
Crackdown Highlights Systemic Loopholes
Dr Basheer noted this was not an isolated case. He cited an instance of a medical college dropout who was caught in Mavelikara but resumed practice in Idukki, underscoring the ease with which impersonators re-enter the healthcare system.
“The problem is structural. Without a robust system to detect and act against impersonators, patient safety remains compromised,” said Dr Basheer.
GPA Calls for Stronger Oversight, Transparent Reporting Mechanism
The GPA has urged for a statewide reporting mechanism and real-time verification of medical credentials to prevent such incidents. They argue that only registered practitioners with the KSMC should be allowed to practice modern medicine in Kerala, and any gaps in verification protocols could lead to dangerous consequences for public health.
Mounting Pressure on Kerala State Medical Council
The Kerala State Medical Council, responsible for licensing and oversight, is under scrutiny for its alleged failure to prevent medical impersonation. The incident has raised serious questions about the council’s enforcement capabilities, as this case—exposed by a private complaint—might have gone unchecked without persistent legal efforts.
