Allegations Against Telangana-Registered Pathologist in Maharashtra
Overview of the Case
A pathologist registered in Telangana is facing serious allegations for signing pathology reports at several laboratories throughout Maharashtra, despite lacking registration with the Maharashtra Medical Council. This requirement is essential for anyone wishing to practice medicine in the state.
Discovery of the Issue
The situation came to light when the Maharashtra Association of Practising Pathologists and Microbiologists (MAPPM) raised concerns after discovering laboratory reports that bore the doctor’s name and signature in various districts, including Beed, Nashik, Jalgaon, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The association subsequently filed a formal complaint with the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) and the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation (CSMP).
Details About the Pathologist
The pathologist in question serves as an assistant professor at a prominent private medical college in Tamil Nadu. Although she has been registered with the Telangana Medical Council since 2013, she has reportedly been signing reports for laboratories located in Maharashtra.
Investigation Findings
Upon receiving pathology reports that featured her qualifications and signature, the association conducted an inspection of the laboratories, where her name was also displayed. The inquiry prompted the MAPPM to verify her registration status with the MMC, which confirmed that no doctor by that name is registered in Maharashtra.
Verification with Telangana Medical Council
Following these findings, MAPPM undertook a comprehensive investigation and confirmed that the doctor is indeed registered with the Telangana Medical Council. The association cross-checked her details with the Telangana council, which verified her credentials.
Legal Implications
The association emphasized that the pathologist’s lack of registration with the Maharashtra Medical Council violates legal requirements for practicing medicine in the state. They noted that, according to a Supreme Court ruling from December 12, 2017, laboratory test reports must be certified only by a pathologist registered with the Medical Council. Additionally, a notification from the Maharashtra Medical Council and a ruling from the Madhya Pradesh High Court state that tests must be conducted in the presence of a registered pathologist who certifies the report.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
Any individual issuing pathology reports without being a registered medical practitioner under the MMC is considered a bogus doctor under Section 33 of the Maharashtra Medical Practitioners Act, 1961. This offense is classified as cognizable and non-bailable.
MAPPM’s Actions and Statements
On January 20, 2026, MAPPM formally requested action from the CSMP against the laboratory operators involved, as well as the pathologist herself, under the relevant legal provisions. Dr. Prasad Kulkarni, an Executive Council member of MAPPM, commented on the situation, stating, “We received multiple reports of her signing at various labs. Upon uncovering this unethical practice, we filed our complaint. Our investigation revealed her registration with the Telangana Medical Council since 2013.”
Response from the Maharashtra Medical Council
Regarding the potential actions to be taken, Dr. Kulkarni noted that while the MMC acknowledged the complaint, it indicated that the matter fell outside its jurisdiction and subsequently forwarded the issue to the Telangana Medical Council.