In a significant development, the Maharashtra government has stepped back from its earlier decision to allow homeopaths to prescribe modern medicine. Instead, it has formed a seven-member expert committee that will examine the issue and submit its recommendations within two months.
New Committee Formed, But Doubts Persist
The newly constituted committee includes representatives from the medical education department, AYUSH directorates, Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, and registrars from both the modern medicine and homeopathy councils. However, the move has failed to inspire confidence among key stakeholders.
Medical Associations Question Committee’s Credibility
As reported by TOI, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and homeopathic practitioners have both expressed skepticism about the committee’s composition and intent. Notably, neither group has committed to accepting the committee’s verdict if it goes against their interests.
Dr. Santosh Kadam, president of IMA Maharashtra, pointed to deeper legal concerns. “The root issue lies in the 2014 amendments to the Maharashtra Homoeopathic Practitioners Act and the Maharashtra Medical Council Act of 1965, which are still pending in the Bombay High Court,” he said. “While the committee can study the matter, any decision that goes against public interest will not be accepted. We place our faith in the judiciary, not this panel.”
Homeopathic Council Also Raises Objections
Bahubali Shah, administrator of the Maharashtra Homeopathic Council, also raised strong objections. “We have no faith in the committee,” he said. “No homeopath has been included—only a clerk has been added as a token representative. This is unacceptable.”
Concerns Over Public Health Risks
For the past ten days, the state’s medical community has voiced serious concern over the proposal to allow homeopaths to practice modern medicine after completing just a one-year pharmacology course. Many fear this could compromise patient safety and pose a significant public health risk.
Awaiting Legal Clarity
As the committee begins its deliberations, stakeholders await the final verdict from the Bombay High Court, which may ultimately decide the legality of cross-system medical practice in the state.