The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) has stopped routine OPD services in Mumbai to protest the state’s plan to grant MMC registration to BHMS doctors holding a CCMP qualification. Emergency, ICU and other critical services will remain operational.

Key Takeaways

  • Doctors halted routine OPD services across Mumbai.
  • Protest targets MMC registration for BHMS practitioners with CCMP.
  • Emergency, ICU, IPD and labour room services continue uninterrupted.

Reason Behind the Protest

On Wednesday, August 5, 2026, the Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) ordered the suspension of routine outpatient department (OPD) services in several Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) hospitals. The move is a direct response to the Maharashtra government’s decision to allow homeopathic doctors with a Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology (CCMP) to register with the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC).

Hospitals Involved

The strike covers KEM Hospital, Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College & General Hospital (Sion), BYL Nair Hospital, and Dr. R. N. Cooper Hospital. While routine OPD services are suspended, emergency, casualty, ICU, labour rooms, and all other essential inpatient services remain fully functional.

Historical Background

Medical protests are not new to Maharashtra. In 2021, doctors rallied against a steep increase in tuition fees at private medical colleges, and in 2023, they demonstrated over changes to AIIMS recruitment policies. These precedents illustrate a pattern of strong professional activism whenever regulatory or educational standards are perceived to be compromised.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that permitting CCMP‑qualified BHMS practitioners into the MMC registry could dilute the distinction between allopathic and homeopathic practice, potentially jeopardising patient safety and the integrity of medical education across India.

"Weakening regulatory standards not only tarnishes the professional reputation of doctors but also puts patient safety at risk," says health‑policy expert Dr. Rajat Mehta.
Did You Know?: India first allowed homeopathic doctors to pursue modern pharmacology courses in the 1970s, but the qualification was voluntary and never tied to compulsory medical registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Will the BHMS‑CCMP registration process continue?

A: MARD has demanded a halt until the High Court delivers its final judgment, so the registration is currently on hold.

Q2: How will patients be affected by the OPD shutdown?

A: Patients seeking routine outpatient care may need to turn to private clinics or other public hospitals, while emergency and critical care services remain available.