Mangaluru: The Dakshina Kannada Health and Family Welfare Department has issued a stern warning to private clinics operating without registration under the Karnataka Private Medical Establishments (KPME) Act. Authorities are targeting establishments conducting medical procedures illegally, including hair transplants, laser treatments, micro-needling, and other invasive procedures.
Inspections reveal unregistered operations
District Health Officer Dr Thimmaiah HR said inspections revealed that several beauty salons in Mangaluru city were advertising themselves as skin care and aesthetic clinics without employing dermatologists or qualified specialist doctors. Many of these establishments were found performing medical procedures that legally require proper registration and certified medical supervision.
During the inspection drive, notices were issued to 10 establishments, and two clinics were immediately closed down for operating without valid registration. “If violations continue, legal action will be taken under the KPME Act, and such establishments will be permanently closed,” Dr Thimmaiah warned.
Role of IADVL and emergency measures
The crackdown follows complaints from the Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists & Leprologists Dakshina Kannada (IADVL) regarding unregistered clinics performing medical procedures without proper credentials. In response, the health department convened an emergency meeting and formed inspection teams comprising senior officials, dermatologists, and health staff to conduct thorough checks of private clinics and cosmetic studios across the district.
Legal compliance and warnings
Officials emphasised that all clinics conducting invasive procedures, including cosmetic and hair transplant treatments, must obtain registration under the KPME Act. Submitting fake documents or operating without valid registration is a punishable offence. Establishments were instructed to provide proper medical records and certifications when applying for licences to ensure compliance.
One of the establishments closed during the drive was located in Deralakatte, while another in Mangaluru city was also shut down. Notices have been served to 10 other establishments, giving them a deadline to regularise their operations. Any further non-compliance will result in permanent closure and legal proceedings under the KPME Act.
Public safety and awareness
The health department highlighted the importance of protecting patient safety and ensuring that all medical procedures are performed under the supervision of certified professionals. Citizens are urged to verify the credentials of clinics offering aesthetic and dermatological services and report any unregistered or suspicious operations to authorities.
Conclusion
The Dakshina Kannada health department’s warning underscores its commitment to regulating medical establishments and safeguarding public health. Authorities have reaffirmed that strict action will be taken against violators, and residents should seek services only from registered and licensed medical establishments.