Shiv Sena Corporators Sound Alarm Over Unregistered Doctors in Thane
Shiv Sena corporators in Thane have raised serious questions regarding the recent proliferation of unregistered doctors operating in various pockets of the city and its suburbs. They have accused the municipal health department of turning a blind eye to this dangerous trend, which they claim is putting residents' lives at significant risk.
Issue Raised in General Body Meeting
The matter was brought to light by Shiv Sena corporator Rajesh More during discussions at the Wednesday general body meeting, which focused on the hiring of honorary doctors. More asserted that fake practitioners, many of whom hail from other states, are opening clinics in suburban areas, particularly in slum localities. He emphasized that these clinics are operating without any verification of the doctors' degrees by the municipal health department.
More also highlighted irregularities in the functioning of IVF and sonography centers across the city. This concern was amplified in the context of a recent racket exposed in Badlapur, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Widespread Problem Across Suburbs
Fellow Shiv Sena corporator Ramakant Madhavi supported More's claims, stating that the problem is rampant in areas such as Diva, Kalwa, and Mumbra. He noted that new clinics are appearing frequently without any checks or oversight from the municipal health department, exacerbating the risk to public health.
"The administration initially claimed that clinic registration was beyond the civic body's jurisdiction," said a source familiar with the meeting. However, corporators demanded immediate steps to plug this apparent loophole, which they believe is being exploited by these alleged bogus doctors.
Municipal Response and Action Plan
In response to the corporators' demands, Additional Municipal Commissioner Sandeep Malvi announced that special inspection teams would be deployed in every ward of Thane. He assured that FIRs would be filed against any quacks found operating illegally.
Officials provided further context, revealing that Thane currently has 11 authorized IVF centers, with 27 others awaiting approval. Recent inspections have uncovered that many facilities are functioning without proper recognition, raising additional concerns about regulatory compliance.
"Surprise checks have already begun across sonography centers and IVF facilities," an official confirmed, indicating a proactive approach to addressing the issue.
Broader Implications and Public Safety
The corporators' allegations point to a systemic failure in healthcare oversight in Thane. The presence of unregistered doctors not only jeopardizes patient safety but also undermines trust in the municipal health system. The promised inspections and legal actions are seen as critical steps toward restoring accountability and ensuring that residents receive legitimate medical care.
As the municipal health department moves forward with its inspection drive, the focus remains on identifying and penalizing unauthorized practitioners, thereby safeguarding the well-being of Thane's citizens.
