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New Delhi, May 18, 2025:
In a significant development for the medical community in the capital, Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Singh has approved the dissolution of the Delhi Medical Council (DMC) amid allegations of financial irregularities and mismanagement. The proposal, which has already been passed by the Health Minister, is now awaiting final approval from the Lieutenant Governor’s office.
Background and Reasons for Dissolution
The Delhi Government initiated the move to dissolve the DMC after receiving multiple complaints regarding discrepancies in doctor registrations, financial liabilities, and overall mismanagement within the Council. Speaking to ANI, Health Minister Singh stated, “We have passed the decision to dissolve the Delhi Medical Council and sent it to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor for approval. There are several serious shortcomings in the Council, ranging from financial liabilities to issues with registrations. We will initiate an investigation into this matter.”
The DMC, established under the Delhi Medical Council Act of 1997, is the statutory body responsible for regulating the practice of modern medicine in Delhi. It also serves as the authority for handling complaints of medical negligence and professional misconduct among doctors in the city.
Interim Arrangements
Pending the formation of a new regulatory body, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has been tasked with overseeing the functions of the DMC. This includes handling new registrations for doctors and maintaining regulatory oversight. “The Director of Health Services (DHS) will take over its responsibilities as the registrar. New registrations for our young doctors will continue under DHS. Once things are streamlined, we will hold elections in consultation with DHS,” added Minister Singh.
Reactions from the Medical Community
The decision has sparked concern among members of the medical fraternity. Dr. Naresh Chawla, officiating president of the DMC, expressed disappointment, stating, “We have been asking the government to appoint a registrar for a long time. Instead, the government moved to dissolve the body. It’s neither in the favour of the medical fraternity, nor the public health.”
The DMC comprises 25 members, including representatives elected by the city’s 100,000 registered allopathic doctors, the Delhi Medical Association, medical college faculties, government nominees, and former officials. The Council has reportedly faced administrative paralysis after the resignation of its Registrar, with repeated requests for a new appointment going unanswered.
Legal Provisions and Next Steps
Under Section 29 of the DMC Act, 1997, the Government holds the authority to dissolve the Council if it determines that the Council or its office-bearers have failed in their duties or exceeded their powers. If the Lieutenant Governor approves the file, this will mark the first dissolution of the DMC since its inception.
The Health Department has assured that essential regulatory functions will continue uninterrupted under the DGHS until a new council is constituted and elections are held.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information reported by Medical Dialogues and statements from official sources as of May 18, 2025. The situation is evolving, and further updates may follow as more information becomes available. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as official government communication. For the latest and most accurate updates, please refer to announcements from the Delhi Health Department and the Lieutenant Governor’s office.
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