The Bengaluru Urban Zilla Panchayat has directed the health department to intensify action against unqualified practitioners allegedly posing as gynaecologists and treating pregnant women in the city’s outskirts and rural areas.
The move comes amid growing concerns that expectant mothers are seeking treatment from individuals without recognised medical qualifications, potentially putting both maternal and infant health at risk.
Special inspections ordered
Chairing a district-level coordination committee meeting on Tuesday, Bengaluru Urban Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Yatheesh R. instructed health officials to form a special inspection team to identify and act against unauthorised practitioners operating private clinics.
He warned that unqualified individuals allegedly offering gynaecological services could endanger the lives of mothers and newborns, particularly during pregnancy and childbirth.
Officials said legal action would be initiated against those found practising without the necessary qualifications and permissions.
Rural patients often unaware of qualifications
According to health department officials, some of the practitioners under scrutiny are trained in alternative systems of medicine such as Ayurveda and Homeopathy but are allegedly providing specialised gynaecological care beyond their authorised scope.
Officials noted that many patients, especially in rural areas, are often unable to distinguish between doctors with MBBS qualifications and those holding BAMS or BHMS degrees.
During emergencies, families frequently seek treatment at the nearest available clinic, increasing the risk of receiving inappropriate care.
Health authorities said the aim is to prevent any adverse incidents and ensure pregnant women receive treatment from qualified professionals.
Focus on maternal health and nutrition
During the meeting, the CEO also directed ASHA workers to document the dietary habits of pregnant women and new mothers across Bengaluru Urban district over the next three months.
The initiative follows reports indicating that nutritional deficiencies among mothers may be contributing to poor infant health and malnutrition.
Officials said the findings would help design targeted nutrition awareness programmes and health interventions.
Monsoon health measures intensified
With the monsoon season underway, officials were also instructed to strengthen awareness campaigns on mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria and chikungunya.
The district administration additionally called for coordinated efforts to reduce dependence on groundwater as part of fluorosis prevention measures.