Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Sep 8: In a massive state-wide crackdown on quackery, the health department has shut down 582 illegal clinics operated by fake doctors across Karnataka since 2024, with Dakshina Kannada (DK) district alone reporting 20 such cases.

The operation against fake medical practitioners and illegal clinics intensified in 2025 following a stern directive from the High Court. Between 2024 and 2026, authorities have taken strict action, completely closing down 582 unrecognised clinics statewide. While 87 offenders have been penalised with fines, legal proceedings are currently underway in courts against 29 individuals.

A majority of these illegal operations were unearthed in rural areas. While Dakshina Kannada registered 20 cases of fake doctors, Kalaburagi topped the state tally with a staggering 127 cases. This was followed by Raichur (124), Dharwad (75), Kolar (31), Vijayapura (24), Ballari (23), Chikkaballapur (17), Bengaluru Urban (16), and Koppal (14).

Investigations by the health department revealed a shocking modus operandi. Most of these quacks held no valid medical degrees. Many were formerly employed as nurses, ward boys, or compounders in various hospitals. They acquired rudimentary 'practical knowledge' merely by observing qualified doctors treat patients.

Relying entirely on this superficial experience, they set up independent clinics in rural pockets, freely administering allopathic treatments, injections, and IV fluids. Furthermore, several practitioners holding degrees in Ayurveda or Homeopathy were caught illegally practicing allopathy.

In light of these alarming revelations, the health department has urged the public to exercise extreme caution before seeking treatment for common ailments like fever or cough at random clinics. Patients have been advised to mandatorily verify if the treating doctor has a valid registration certificate issued by the official Medical Council.