Karnataka Cracks Down on Fake Doctors (Img: Pexels)
Bengaluru: The Karnataka health department has identified 582 fake doctors across the state since 2024, raising concerns over illegal medical practices and patient safety. The department has intensified its crackdown on unqualified practitioners while also forming a special investigation team to probe fake drug rackets.
The action against fake doctors gained momentum in 2025 after the **Karnataka High Court questioned the government over inadequate measures against quacks operating across the state.
According to health department data, most cases have been reported from rural areas.
Kalaburagi recorded the highest number of fake doctor cases with 127 instances, followed by Raichur with 124 cases and Dharwad with 75 cases.
Officials said remote areas often become easy targets for illegal practitioners due to limited access to qualified medical professionals and healthcare facilities.
Health department officials said many fake doctors are former assistants, ward boys or nurses who have worked closely with qualified doctors for years.
After observing medical procedures and gaining basic knowledge, some of them open small clinics in rural regions where they convince local residents about their experience and abilities.
Officials said their familiarity with medical terms and treatment methods often helps them gain the confidence of patients despite lacking proper qualifications.
While rural districts have reported more cases, officials believe illegal clinics may also exist in cities.
A health department official said metropolitan areas like Bengaluru have a large number of private clinics, making regular inspections difficult due to limited manpower and resources.
Officials said fake doctors fall into multiple categories. Some have no recognised medical qualifications, while others may possess certain qualifications but are not registered under the Karnataka Private Medical Establishments Act.
The health department is now preparing an action plan to strengthen monitoring, increase inspections and impose stricter penalties, including heavy fines on illegal clinics.
Healthcare experts believe enforcement alone may not completely solve the problem. They stressed the need to strengthen government healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas.
According to experts, better availability of affordable and reliable medical services can reduce dependence on unqualified practitioners and help prevent the growth of fake doctor networks.
