In a major move to protect public health, the Assam government has launched a strict crackdown on fake doctors in Assam. Authorities have arrested four impostors running unauthorized medical clinics in Nagaon and Jorhat, exposing a disturbing trend in healthcare fraud.
This crackdown, led by Health Minister Dr. Abhijit Neog, aims to eliminate unqualified practitioners who pose a serious risk to community well-being.
“We are actively rooting out these impostors who are gambling with lives,” said Dr. Neog at a press conference.
The Growing Threat of Fake Doctors in Assam
How Fake Doctors in Assam Target Rural Communities
Health authorities report that fake doctors in Assam have been thriving in rural and low-income areas. These impostors often take advantage of limited access to licensed professionals. In many cases, patients unknowingly turn to them for treatment, thinking they are certified practitioners.
These untrained individuals:
- Lack formal medical education
- Use fake degrees and unverified licenses
- Prescribe harmful or unregulated drugs
- Operate illegally in unsupervised clinics
This has created a silent epidemic, especially in districts like Nagaon, Jorhat, Barpeta, and parts of Karbi Anglong.
Recent Crackdown on Fake Doctors in Assam: What Happened
Government Takes Firm Action in Nagaon and Jorhat
Police and health officials coordinated a multi-district operation that led to the arrest of four fake doctors. These individuals had no verified degrees or medical registration. They ran local clinics, dispensed strong medication, and charged unsuspecting patients under false pretenses.
Officials discovered:
- Fake MBBS certificates
- Expired and banned medications
- No documentation from the Medical Council of India (MCI)
- Forged prescription pads and IDs
One more suspect is on the run. Authorities are tracking him and expect more arrests in the coming days.
Read the original report in The Times of India →
How the Assam Government Is Responding
State Launches Verification Portal and Helpline
To fight the spread of fake doctors in Assam, the Health Department has announced the following measures:
- Digital Doctor Verification Portal – Patients will soon be able to verify a doctor’s credentials online through the Assam Medical Council.
- 24/7 Anti-Quackery Helpline – Citizens can call 1800-345-6789 to report any suspicious medical practices or unauthorized clinics.
- Clinic Credential Audit – All private clinics are undergoing re-verification of staff and licensing.
Why It’s Urgent to Address This Issue
Fake Doctors Put Lives at Risk
The presence of fake doctors in Assam threatens public safety. Many innocent patients suffer from wrong treatments, delayed diagnoses, or worsening conditions because they trust someone pretending to be a doctor.
Some of the worst consequences include:
- Serious infections after fake surgeries
- Dangerous drug interactions
- Misinformation around diseases like tuberculosis and diabetes
- Increased maternal and infant deaths due to unskilled care
People need access to safe and qualified healthcare, not impostors playing doctor.
How You Can Stay Safe and Protect Others
Identify and Report Fake Doctors in Assam
To avoid being a victim of medical fraud:
- Always ask for the doctor’s registration number and check it online
- Look for the clinic’s official license displayed on the premises
- Be suspicious if the doctor discourages referrals or advanced tests
- Report unqualified practitioners immediately to the local health office or via the anti-quackery helpline
Local Communities Applaud the Crackdown
Residents and social activists are praising the government’s decisive action. Many say this was long overdue, especially in underserved regions where fake doctors have operated freely for years.
“This action is saving lives. Our village doctor was exposed as a fraud, and now people are more cautious,” said Parag Nath, a resident of Nagaon.
The move has also increased awareness around legitimate healthcare access and the importance of medical accountability.
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The crackdown on fake doctors in Assam is a major step toward building a safer and more trustworthy healthcare system. But lasting change depends on community awareness, strong enforcement, and continuous monitoring.