Ahmedabad: The National Medical Commission (NMC) has stayed the Gujarat Medical Council’s (GMC) decision to debar Dr. Prashant Vazirani, the cardiologist at the centre of the Khyati Hospital scam, who remains lodged in Sabarmati Central Jail for allegedly performing unindicated angioplasties that resulted in the deaths of two patients.
The NMC issued the stay order on April 10, stating that implementing the GMC’s debarment before fully hearing Dr. Vazirani’s appeal would cause “irreparable harm”. The NMC cited a 2022 Bombay High Court judgment which cautioned against punitive action before due process in similar cases.
Background of the Case:
Dr. Vazirani allegedly performed angioplasty procedures on 19 patients, brought from a free health camp organized under the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY scheme. Of these, two patients died, and five were put on ventilators. Investigations later revealed that at least seven of these patients had no blockages, and the procedures were medically unwarranted.
According to a chargesheet filed by the Ahmedabad crime branch, Dr. Vazirani:
- Was not registered on the PM-JAY HEM portal.
- Allegedly fabricated diagnostic diagrams to show 70–90% heart blockages.
- Falsely induced panic, secured consent, and implanted unnecessary stents.
- Was part of a conspiracy orchestrated by the hospital’s management to siphon government funds under the guise of free treatment.
The doctor, along with seven others including the hospital’s CEO and directors, was arrested following an FIR lodged by victims’ families and a government-appointed panel.
Medical Council’s Stand:
The Gujarat Medical Council, in November 2024, suspended Dr. Vazirani’s license for three years, citing clear evidence of gross professional misconduct. Reacting to the NMC’s recent stay, senior GMC member Dr. Bhavin Kothari expressed strong dissent, stating:
“This decision sets a dangerous precedent. Dr. Vazirani remains in jail and is yet to receive bail. The action against him was based on a government probe that established serious medical and ethical violations.”
GMC officials have now decided to approach the NMC’s Ethics and Medical Registration Board (EMRB) with detailed findings from their investigation, ahead of the next hearing on Dr. Vazirani’s appeal.
Fallout and Policy Reforms:
In response to the scandal, the state health department has introduced sweeping reforms for PM-JAY affiliated hospitals, especially in documentation, consent protocols, and accreditation standards.
