Homeopaths threaten Mantralaya dharna on Tuesday over MMC registration, AYUSH doctors join protest
Homeopaths Threaten Mantralaya Dharna on Tuesday: AYUSH Doctors Join Protest
Bharatmorningnews.com – MUMBAI: Homeopathic doctors have announced plans to stage a significant dharna outside Mantralaya on Tuesday, timed to coincide with the Maharashtra state cabinet meeting. The demonstration aims to press for their long-pending demand for registration with the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC). This growing movement has now expanded beyond homeopathy, with doctors from other AYUSH streams extending their support to the cause.
The protest, spearheaded by representatives of homeopathic doctors, follows the Maharashtra government’s recent decision to put on hold its plan to allow their registration with the MMC from July 27. This pause came after strong objections from prominent medical bodies, including the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD), who raised concerns about potential conflicts in medical practice.
Understanding the MMC Registration Demand
Homeopathic doctors in Maharashtra are seeking MMC registration to legally prescribe modern (allopathic) medicines within their practice. Under the state’s existing policy framework, homeopaths who successfully complete the one-year Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology (CCMP) are permitted to integrate basic allopathic treatment into their healthcare services. This integration is particularly aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery in rural areas where medical resources may be limited.
However, practitioners argue that registration with the MMC is essential for multiple reasons. They seek legal backing for their practice, ensure their prescriptions are properly accepted by pharmacists, secure official recognition of their modern medicine training, and protect themselves from legal challenges over alleged “crosspathy” accusations.
Protest Escalation and Wider Support
The agitation has now expanded significantly, with doctors practising other Indian systems of medicine—Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH)—under the banner of the Integrated Doctors Association (IDA) joining the protest. Since the government’s decision was put on hold, homeopathic doctors have been conducting daily protests outside the MMC office, demonstrating their determination to see their demands met.
The protests escalated dramatically on Friday when homeopaths locked the doors of the MMC office, drawing sharp criticism from the IMA. The association stated that the act tarnished the medical profession and was unbecoming of “any civilised medical professional.” The IMA also demanded immediate police action against the protesters.
“The protest was purely symbolic. After office hours, the main entrance gate was symbolically held closed for approximately five minutes as part of the sit-in protest. Mumbai Police were present throughout the protest, and the entire demonstration was conducted in their presence,” said Dr Yogesh Bhalerao, working president of the IDF.
Historical Context and Political Dimensions
The dispute between homeopaths and allopathic doctors over the issue has persisted for years, with tensions typically intensifying around the medical college admission season. This period sees the issue gain political traction as several political leaders own homeopathy colleges and have significant stakes in the sector.
With homeopaths threatening Mantralaya dharna on Tuesday, all eyes are now on the state government to resolve this longstanding medical registration controversy. The involvement of multiple AYUSH practitioners suggests this could become a broader movement affecting healthcare policy in Maharashtra.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main demand of homeopathic doctors? A: Homeopathic doctors are demanding registration with the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) to legally prescribe modern (allopathic) medicines and receive official recognition for their practice.
Q: Why was the MMC registration put on hold? A: The Maharashtra government paused the registration decision following strong objections from the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD).
Q: What is the CCMP course? A: The Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology (CCMP) is a one-year program that allows homeopaths to integrate basic allopathic treatment into their practice.
Q: Who is joining the protest? A: Besides homeopathic doctors, practitioners from Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH) under the Integrated Doctors Association (IDA) are also participating.
Q: What happened during the Friday protest? A: Homeopaths locked the doors of the MMC office for approximately five minutes in a symbolic sit-in protest, with Mumbai Police present throughout the demonstration.