Petition Against Renewal Notice Dismissed
The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has dismissed a petition challenging a notification issued by the Tamil Nadu Homeopathy Medical Council for renewal of registration certificates of homeopathy practitioners.
Challenge by Former Council Member
The petition was filed by GP Hahnemann, a homeopathy practitioner and former member of the council. He questioned the validity of a notification dated September 23, 2025, which invited applications from doctors for renewal of their registration certificates.
Allegation of Improper Committee
The petitioner contended that the notification was issued in the name of the council’s executive committee, even though no properly elected executive committee was in place at the relevant time. He argued that the decision was taken by an ad hoc committee consisting of nominated members, which, according to him, lacked the authority to issue such a notification.
State and Council’s Stand
Opposing the plea, the respondents submitted that the renewal process was essential and legally justified. They argued that an executive committee election could not be conducted unless an updated and verified list of registered homeopathy practitioners was first prepared.
Court Explains Regulatory Requirement
The division bench comprising Justices G. Jayachandran and K.K. Ramakrishnan observed that the renewal exercise was initiated in compliance with Regulation 9 of the National Commission for Homeopathy Regulations, 2022. The regulation mandates updation of licence details in the state or national register every five years to avoid penalties and cancellation.
Ad Hoc Committee Held Competent
The court held that under the National Commission for Homeopathy Act, the ad hoc committee was legally empowered to take steps for preparing and maintaining the register of eligible practitioners. Such action was necessary for ensuring continuity in regulatory functions.
Observations of the Bench
“The ad hoc committee, which has now taken the decision to prepare and maintain the eligible registered practitioners of homeopathy, is in consonance with the provisions of the National Commission for Homeopathy Act,” the bench observed, as reported.
Renewal Process Allowed to Continue
With these findings, the Madras High Court dismissed the petition and permitted the Tamil Nadu Homeopathy Medical Council to proceed with the registration renewal process, clearing the way for compliance with national regulatory norms.
