In a recent operation, health authorities in Bellary taluk conducted a crackdown on unlicensed medical clinics, resulting in the closure of five such establishments and the initiation of legal proceedings. According to the Karnataka Private Hospitals Act of 2007, healthcare facilities and laboratories are mandated to undergo registration and acquire proper permissions before commencing operations. The Health Officer of Bellary Taluk, Dr. Mohana Kumari, stressed that any unauthorized practice of medicine by non-qualified individuals would lead to the filing of a formal complaint.
Under the guidance of Dr. Y. Rameshbabu, the Health and Family Welfare Officer for Bellary District, a series of unauthorized clinics in locations like Jagarti Nagar, Kavadi Street, Reshme Office, and Bellary City were identified and subsequently seized. The individuals posing as medical professionals, namely Karim, Govind, Javeed, and Shabana Vridda, now face a registered FIR at the Bazar Police Station.
Dr. Mohana Kumari also highlighted the role of property owners, emphasizing that those leasing properties to medical practitioners should exercise diligence in verifying the credentials of their tenants. Neglecting this responsibility, she noted, could have severe consequences for public health, especially when unqualified individuals dispense medication. In matters involving healthcare, where people’s lives are at stake, official registration and adherence to legal norms are non-negotiable.
Dr. Mohana Kumari made it clear that strict legal measures, as prescribed by the Karnataka Private Hospitals Act of 2007, would be taken against those found practicing medicine without the requisite registration. During this operation, the efforts of Arun Kumar from the KPMA team and the support provided by Gopal H.K. Kaul from the Bazar Police Station were notable.
