CHENNAI: Since the fever cases are on rise in the state, it has also become the time for quacks to take advantage and make a quick buck. One such 47-year-old quack was arrested by the police for allegedly providing allopathic treatment and prescribing medicines to patients in Kancheepuram district.
The quack named Thirumalaikumar, who had obtained Siddha and acupuncture degrees, turned himself into an allopathic medical practitioner. Police said he pretended to be a doctor who had completed his MBBS course. “The quack also provided treatment to several patients and even he kept prescribing drugs and medicines relating to allopathy for the past six months,” the investigating officials pointed out.
Further inquires revealed that he had set up a new clinic and it was a resident living nearby his clinic suspected that he could be a quack. “The resident alerted the Joint Director of Medical Services (JDMS) of Kancheepuram district. Acting on the tip-off, a medical team headed by JDMS was formed and the team raided at the clinic. The team held inquiries with the quack and sought his certificates for practising allopathy. The quack had no documents for treating patients with allopathic medicines.
Police attached to Siva Kanchi police station registered a case under section 15 and 15 (3) (a) of Indian Medical Council Act, 1956 and remanded him in a magistrate court on Friday.
It may be noted that despite repeated warning from state health department, quacks continue to resort to such malpractices. Public are also cautioned not to visit any quack for undergoing treatment. “Stern action would be taken against quacks involving allopathic treatment, at a time when state is witnessing thousands number of fever cases, including dengue and swine flu,” said a medical officer
