The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) has issued a landmark clarification stating that registered Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha, and Sowa-Rigpa practitioners cannot legally be termed 'quacks' or 'bogus doctors'.

Key Takeaways

  • NCISM clarified that registered AYUSH practitioners are legally recognized medical professionals.
  • Labeling BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, or BSRMS holders as 'quacks' has no legal basis.
  • The move aims to stop harassment and defamatory campaigns against traditional medicine doctors.
  • The ruling does not grant AYUSH doctors the authority to practice modern medicine unless permitted by state laws.

The National Commission for Indian System of Medicine (NCISM) has issued a decisive circular clarifying that qualified and registered practitioners of India’s recognized traditional medicine systems cannot be legally described as “quacks” or “bogus doctors.” This clarification follows rising instances of harassment and defamatory public campaigns targeting these professionals.

Protecting Professional Integrity

According to the circular dated July 29, 2026, doctors holding recognized qualifications such as BAMS (Ayurveda), BUMS (Unani), BSMS (Siddha), or BSRMS (Sowa-Rigpa) are legally recognized medical practitioners under the NCISM Act, 2020. The regulator noted that many practitioners were being targeted via social media, print, and electronic media with misleading labels.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this distinction is crucial for maintaining the dignity of traditional medical systems. While the order protects their status, it is vital to note that it does not equate AYUSH practitioners with MBBS doctors. The authority to prescribe allopathic medication remains subject to specific state laws and judicial rulings.

Registered AYUSH practitioners are authorized professionals within their respective systems of medicine.

Defining a 'Quack' Legally

In legal terms, a “quack” is someone who practices medicine without the required qualifications or legal registration. By issuing this circular, the NCISM is drawing a clear line between unqualified individuals and legitimate, degree-holding practitioners of the Indian System of Medicine (ISM).

Historical Background

The NCISM was established as a statutory regulator under the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Act, 2020. It replaced the erstwhile Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM) to oversee medical education, professional standards, and the registration of practitioners in traditional systems.

Did You Know?: The term 'quack' historically refers to someone selling fake remedies, often without any formal medical training.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does this order allow AYUSH doctors to practice Allopathy?
No. The ability to prescribe modern medicine depends on the specific laws of the state and relevant statutory provisions.

2. What is the legal basis for this NCISM order?
The order is based on the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Act, 2020, which recognizes these systems of medicine.