What Is The Penalty For Practicing Without A Valid License?

Practicing medicine without a valid or renewed license is considered a serious legal and ethical violation in India. It compromises patient safety and undermines the integrity of the medical profession. Regulatory bodies such as the National Medical Commission (NMC) and State Medical Councils enforce strict penalties to prevent unauthorized medical practice.

Legal and Disciplinary Consequences:

1. Criminal Offense Under the NMC Act, 2019:

As per Section 34 of the National Medical Commission Act, 2019, anyone practicing medicine without being registered with a State Medical Council or the NMC commits a punishable offense.

Penalty includes imprisonment up to 1 year or fine up to ₹5 lakh, or both.

2. Action by State Medical Councils:

State councils may issue notices, impose penalties, and initiate disciplinary action against those found practicing with expired or invalid licenses.

Practitioners may be disqualified from future registration or permanently blacklisted.

3. Cancellation of License (If Previously Held):

If the practitioner had a license that lapsed, continued practice can result in permanent cancellation of license and future ban on re-registration.

4. Civil Liability and Lawsuits:

Patients harmed due to treatment by unlicensed practitioners can sue for damages in consumer or civil courts.

Such actions may result in compensation orders or professional negligence cases.

5. Violation of Medical Ethics:

Practicing without license is a direct violation of the Code of Medical Ethics, which mandates valid registration and periodic renewal for all medical professionals.

Violators may face censure from professional bodies like the Indian Medical Association (IMA).

6. Police Involvement in Cases of Fraud:

In cases where fake degrees or forged licenses are used, police action may be taken under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for fraud, impersonation, or cheating.

Example:

Dr. X continued practicing in Delhi despite his registration expiring a year ago. A patient filed a complaint after complications during a treatment. Upon investigation, the Delhi Medical Council found that Dr. X had not renewed his license. Legal action was initiated under the NMC Act, resulting in a ₹2 lakh fine and a warning of imprisonment for continued non-compliance. His registration was suspended for 3 years.