---
title: "Medical Unions Threaten Strike Over Maharashtra Pharmacology Bridge Course Decision"
url: https://projectchintan.com/article/maharashtra-doctors-strike-homeopathy-allopathy-bridge-course-x184d
publisher: Project Chintan
author: Project Chintan Newsroom
section: Technology
published: 2026-08-06T10:15:08.000Z
modified: 2026-08-06T13:02:39.411Z
language: en-IN
---

# Medical Unions Threaten Strike Over Maharashtra Pharmacology Bridge Course Decision

The Indian Medical Association and resident doctors are challenging a state notification that permits homeopathy practitioners to practice allopathic medicine after a one-year course. Allopathic physicians warn of patient risks and legal violations if the order remains in effect.

## Key takeaways

- Maharashtra doctors threaten a 24-hour strike starting July 11 if the bridge course registration is not rescinded.
- The new state policy allows homeopathy practitioners with a one-year pharmacology certificate to register for allopathic practice.
- Medical associations claim the order is illegal, illogical, and potentially constitutes contempt of court while cases are pending.
- The IMA warns that patient safety is at risk due to potential misdiagnosis and confusion between different medical disciplines.

## The Policy Controversy

A recent notification from the Maharashtra Medical Council has ignited a fierce debate between state authorities and the allopathic medical community. The directive permits homeopathy practitioners who have completed a one-year Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology (CCMP) to register with the council and practice modern medicine. Professional organizations argue this move compromises public safety and undermines the extensive training required for allopathic certification.

## Professional Resistance and Planned Protests

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Maharashtra Senior Resident Doctors Association (MSRDA) have formally condemned the decision. IMA State President Santosh Kadam has warned of a 24-hour statewide strike scheduled for July 11 if the government fails to rescind the order by July 10. This withdrawal of services would encompass consultations, routine check-ups, and surgeries. Furthermore, the IMA has organized a march in Mumbai for July 19 and dispatched protest letters to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis through its 220 state branches.

## Key Facts

- The Maharashtra Medical Council notification, issued on June 30, allows CCMP-trained homeopathy doctors to register for modern medicine practice starting July 15.
- Medical associations argue the decision violates existing protocols as homeopathy practitioners already have a dedicated council for registration.
- Critics highlight that the matter remains sub judice in the Bombay High Court, suggesting the government's move may constitute contempt of court.
- The MSRDA emphasizes the disparity in training, contrasting a one-year pharmacology certificate with the 8 to 12 years of evidence-based education completed by MBBS doctors.

## Public Health Concerns

The IMA asserts that blurring the lines between homeopathy and allopathy will mislead the public and cause dangerous confusion during medical emergencies. They maintain that incorrect diagnoses or improper medication by practitioners lacking comprehensive training in pathophysiology and clinical diagnosis could place patient lives at risk. MSRDA President Dr. Abhijit Helge stated that the policy erodes medical standards and public trust, characterizing modern medicine as a discipline far more complex than simple memorization of pharmaceutical names.

Source: The Hindu — Sci-Tech

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Canonical: https://projectchintan.com/article/maharashtra-doctors-strike-homeopathy-allopathy-bridge-course-x184d
Reported from: The Hindu — Sci-Tech