Bagalkot district is facing a serious health crisis as over 300 unqualified individuals, holding qualifications such as SSLC, PUC, BA, BCom, TCH, and ITI, have opened clinics and are treating patients. This alarming trend has come to light following several botched medical procedures, including abortion and child delivery, leading to fatalities.
In Mahalingpur, a PUC graduate’s attempt to perform an abortion resulted in the patient’s death. Similarly, in Bilagi, a BAMS graduate’s attempt to deliver a baby ended in tragedy when the woman died due to complications. These incidents have prompted police action, with numerous cases now registered across both rural and urban areas of the district. Reports have been submitted to the deputy commissioner, zilla panchayat chief executive officer, and the district health officer.
Superintendent of Police Amarnath Reddy confirmed that detailed lists of quacks have been submitted to the health department, urging inspections and necessary actions. While over 50 BAMS graduates are permitted to practice Ayurvedic medicine, they are illegally treating patients with allopathic methods. Additionally, some nursing graduates and other unqualified individuals have been providing medical treatment for years, posing significant risks to public health.
Bagalkot district health officer, Dr. Jayashree Emmi, has acknowledged the issue and assured stringent action against clinics operated by these fake doctors.