Tensions are mounting ahead of the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) elections scheduled for April 26, 2025, with serious allegations of political interference, internal divisions within the medical fraternity, and controversy over the removal of nearly 72,000 doctors from the voters’ list.
72,000 Doctors Removed from Voters’ List Sparks Row
The controversy began after concerns were raised over the exclusion of around 72,000 doctors from the electoral rolls. As per official norms, registration with the Maharashtra Medical Council is mandatory for all medical graduates and must be renewed every five years.
Officials clarified that the removal was due to non-renewal of registration by nearly 70,000 practitioners. Currently, the MMC has approximately 1.3 lakh registered doctors, significantly impacting the voter base for the upcoming elections.
First Elections in a Decade Amid Administrative Control
The upcoming polls will be the first MMC elections in nearly ten years. Originally due in 2022, the elections were delayed, leaving the council under the control of a state-appointed administrator.
The council structure comprises nine elected members and nine government nominees, ensuring a balance between elected representatives and state oversight. The elections, initially scheduled for April 3, were later postponed to April 26, raising further concerns among members.
IMA Split Into Two Rival Factions
The issue has intensified with a reported split within the Indian Medical Association (IMA), leading to the emergence of two rival panels claiming legitimacy.
- The “Official IMA MMC Panel”, backed by state president Dr Santosh Kulkarni and allegedly supported by BJP-affiliated Vaidkiya Aghadi.
- The “IMA Members MMC Panel”, supported by 14 former presidents and senior members of the association.
This division has exposed deep internal rifts within the IMA, complicating the electoral landscape.
Allegations of Political Pressure and Procedural Violations
Former MMC member Dr Suhas Pingle alleged that established protocols were bypassed during panel selection.
According to him, a previously vetted 2025 panel was scrapped, and eligibility rules were “arbitrarily” altered. He further claimed that a newly formed selection committee, comprising relatively new members, was tasked with hand-picking candidates—leading to protests and walkouts by senior members.
Adding to the controversy, former MMC president Dr Shivkumar Utture alleged that members of the original panel received threatening calls from Vaidkiya Aghadi, pressuring them to switch allegiance. One member reportedly withdrew under pressure.
Dr Kulkarni Denies Allegations, Calls Panel ‘Official’
Responding to the allegations, Dr Santosh Kulkarni dismissed all claims as baseless.
He stated that his panel is the only official one, citing an alliance with the Maharashtra State Medical Teachers Association. He also asserted that former IMA presidents do not hold authority in the current decision-making process.
High Stakes for Medical Governance in Maharashtra
The outcome of the MMC elections is crucial, as the body serves as a quasi-judicial authority responsible for regulating medical practice and handling cases of negligence and malpractice.
With political overtones, internal divisions, and a reduced voter base, the upcoming elections are set to play a significant role in shaping the future of medical governance in Maharashtra.
