A 50-year-old man was arrested in Vishamangalam village near Tirupattur town on Wednesday for allegedly practising medicine without qualifications and running an unauthorised clinic-cum-pharmacy from a rented home. Health officials confirmed that the man, identified as D. Anbarasu, had only completed Class XII and had been offering treatment to villagers for several years.
Authorities said Anbarasu, a native of Jothimangalam village in Tirupattur taluk, had converted his rented premises into a makeshift clinic equipped with basic medical instruments and stocked medicines. Residents had reportedly raised concerns over his activities, prompting closer scrutiny by the local health department.
Surprise check uncovers illegal practice
Following multiple complaints from villagers, a special medical team led by K. Sivakumar, Medical Officer at the Government Taluk Hospital, Tirupattur, conducted a surprise inspection at the premises. Officials sealed both the clinic and the pharmacy and seized various medical items found inside.
Initial inquiries suggest that Anbarasu had been providing consultations, prescribing medicines and offering basic treatments despite holding no medical degree or registration with state health authorities.
Police register case, further probe continues
A case was registered by Tirupattur Taluk Police, and Anbarasu has since been lodged at a sub-jail in Tirupattur town. Police officials said investigations are under way to determine the full scale of his activities, the number of patients treated, and whether any harm resulted from the unqualified medical practice.
Local health authorities reiterated the risks of seeking treatment from unqualified practitioners, especially in remote areas where access to proper medical facilities can be limited.
Community awareness efforts to follow
Officials said that awareness drives will be conducted in the village to help residents identify authorised medical services and report suspicious practices. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of regulated healthcare access and the dangers posed by unlicensed treatment providers.