BMC probes unregistered doctors in Mumbai hospitals after salary fraud exposed

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is investigating the employment of unregistered doctors in its hospitals. A recent case involving Dr. Bharat Sawant, an MBBS graduate from Russia without Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) registration, has triggered a broader review of medical staff credentials. The issue came to light during a BMC General Body meeting. Leader of the Opposition Kishori Pednekar and Congress group leader Ashraf Azmi raised concerns about fake doctors working in municipal hospitals. They highlighted Dr. Sawant’s case, who allegedly continued to draw a salary of around Rs 2.5 lakh even after being barred from V.N. Desai Hospital.

The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) responded by issuing notices to the Municipal Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone VIII). Meanwhile, the BMC administration ordered hospital deans and medical superintendents to re-verify the degrees and credentials of all doctors in municipal hospitals.

Dr. Archana Bhalerao also called for stronger verification processes for foreign medical graduates. The BMC has since taken over ICU doctor services, which were previously outsourced. Sai Sanjeevani Polyclinic and Nursing Home, the contractor linked to the issue, was blacklisted in 2024. The BMC is now conducting a fresh verification of all doctors’ credentials. The blacklisting of the contractor and the direct management of ICU services aim to prevent similar incidents. Authorities continue to monitor the situation to ensure compliance with medical regulations.