The Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) is set for a major structural overhaul after the Maharashtra Government decided to scrap elections for its executive body and replace them with a nomination-based system. The decision, taken during a state cabinet meeting on Monday, will require amendments to the Maharashtra Medical Council Act, 1965 and is expected to be implemented through an ordinance.
Supreme Court directive and stalled elections
The move comes despite a recent directive from the Supreme Court of India, which in January had instructed that long-pending MMC elections be conducted. Elections were scheduled for April 26, but the council has not held polls since 2016 and has been functioning under a state-appointed administrator since 2022.
Doctors allege government interference
The decision has triggered strong opposition from members of the medical fraternity. Dr Shiv Kumar Utture, former president of the MMC, criticised the move, stating that elections are fundamental in a democratic setup.
He also expressed concern over the timing of the decision, noting that it contradicts the Supreme Court’s recent direction. According to him, doctors may challenge the decision in court.
Government plans structural reforms
Under the new proposal, all council members will be appointed through nomination instead of elections. The government has also formed a high-level committee under the Department of Medical Education and Research to recommend reforms.
The committee includes experts such as Dr Anand Bang, Dr Kailash Sharma, and Dr Vikas Mahatme. It has studied frameworks like the National Medical Commission Act, 2019 and regulatory systems in other states.
Membership to expand, selection to be merit-based
Currently, the MMC comprises 18 members—nine elected and nine nominated. Under the proposed changes, the strength will increase to 23 members, all appointed through a nomination process.
The government has stated that the new system will ensure balanced representation from medical education and healthcare sectors, with a transparent and merit-based selection process.
Role of MMC in healthcare regulation
The Maharashtra Medical Council functions as a statutory regulatory body responsible for registering doctors, renewing licences, approving additional qualifications, enforcing ethical standards, and addressing complaints against practitioners. It also plays a key role in maintaining standards in medical education and promoting continuous professional development.
