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Health
West Bengal Introduces Protocols to Block Fake Doctors in Private Clinics
✍️ NDTV
🗓 02 Oct 2026, 05:16 PM
👁 15
The West Bengal government has issued new guidelines aimed at preventing private hospitals from hiring unqualified practitioners, seeking to curb the rise of fake doctors.
Kolkata, West Bengal – The state health ministry announced a set of fresh protocols designed to stop private healthcare facilities from employing doctors without valid credentials. The move comes after mounting concerns over the presence of unqualified practitioners in clinics and hospitals across the state.
Under the new guidelines, every doctor appointed by a private institution must present a verified medical degree, registration with the West Bengal Medical Council, and a background check confirming no prior malpractice allegations. Facilities are also required to maintain digital records of these documents, which will be subject to periodic audits by health officials.
The government highlighted several recent incidents where patients suffered due to misdiagnosis and improper treatment by individuals lacking proper medical training. Health officials said the protocols aim to protect public health and restore confidence in private medical services.
Hospitals and clinics have been given a two‑week window to comply, after which surprise inspections will be conducted. Non‑compliant establishments risk penalties, including suspension of their operating licenses, the ministry added.
Under the new guidelines, every doctor appointed by a private institution must present a verified medical degree, registration with the West Bengal Medical Council, and a background check confirming no prior malpractice allegations. Facilities are also required to maintain digital records of these documents, which will be subject to periodic audits by health officials.
The government highlighted several recent incidents where patients suffered due to misdiagnosis and improper treatment by individuals lacking proper medical training. Health officials said the protocols aim to protect public health and restore confidence in private medical services.
Hospitals and clinics have been given a two‑week window to comply, after which surprise inspections will be conducted. Non‑compliant establishments risk penalties, including suspension of their operating licenses, the ministry added.