IMA Threatens to Renounce MMC Registrations Over Homeopath Inclusions

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has warned that its members will surrender their Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) registrations if any additional homeopaths in the state are registered under the council. The warning comes as homeopathic associations organized a march from Azad Maidan to Mantralaya in south Mumbai to press their demands with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The conflict stems from a Maharashtra government resolution issued earlier this month that allows homeopaths to register with the MMC upon completing a one-year certificate course. This registration effectively permits homeopathic practitioners to prescribe modern allopathic medicines.

So far, the MMC has issued only one registration under the new provision, granting it to a Mankhurd-based homeopath. The decision triggered immediate pushback from allopathic medical professionals across the state. The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) previously staged a statewide strike against the policy, which was called off following directions from the Bombay High Court.

Meanwhile, protesting homeopathic associations are expanding their demands. In addition to seeking the resumption of MMC registrations, practitioners are calling for wider institutional recognition. Amol Ambekar, president of an AYUSH association, stated that practitioners want fitness certificates issued by AYUSH doctors to be officially accepted by corporate entities and government institutions.

Legal proceedings regarding the government resolution remain underway. IMA state president Dr Santosh Kulkarni stated that hearings in the case are continuing in the Bombay High Court, with a verdict expected to be delivered later this month.