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New Delhi, May 30, 2025:
In a significant development, the Delhi Medical Council (DMC) has directed two doctors from Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, to refrain from claiming the status of neonatologists and practicing as super-specialists. The decision comes amid ongoing inquiries into the doctors’ qualifications and allegations of medical negligence.
Background: Allegations and Investigation
The controversy dates back to 2019, when the two doctors—Dr. Akhilesh Singh and Dr. Vivek Jain—were accused of medical negligence that allegedly resulted in a child developing cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and West Syndrome. The child’s parents claimed that the doctors, who presented themselves as super-specialists, did not possess the necessary qualifications for such roles.
Following these allegations, a plea was filed in the Delhi High Court, which prompted the Court to direct the National Medical Commission (NMC), DMC, and the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) to scrutinize the postgraduate degrees and credentials of the doctors involved.
DMC’s Findings and Actions
According to the DMC, Dr. Akhilesh Singh is registered with only an MBBS qualification, while Dr. Vivek Jain holds an MBBS and an MRCP (UK) qualification. However, neither doctor holds a recognized super-specialty degree in neonatology or pediatrics, as per the records available with the DMC and information from the UK General Medical Council.
In its recent letter to the Medical Superintendent of Fortis Hospital, the DMC stated:
“Pending further inquiry, both Dr. Akhilesh Singh and Dr. Vivek Jain should refrain from claiming neonatologist status and practicing as super-specialists. Their credentials as qualified pediatricians are also pending inquiry.”
The Council also noted that neither the doctors nor the hospital administration responded to official notices seeking clarification on their qualifications.
Response from the National Medical Commission
The NMC informed the Delhi High Court that neither doctor had the recognized qualifications to be designated as a child specialist or neonatologist. The NMC emphasized that Dr. Singh’s registration was solely based on his MBBS degree, and Dr. Jain’s additional qualifications were not recognized for specialist status in India.
Ongoing Inquiry
The DMC has clarified that its decision is provisional, pending the outcome of a more detailed investigation into the doctors’ credentials and the allegations of medical negligence. The Council has underscored the importance of ensuring that only qualified professionals practice as specialists, in the interest of patient safety and public trust.
Hospital’s Stand
As of now, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, has not issued a public statement in response to the DMC’s directive or the ongoing inquiry.
Disclaimer
This news article is based on information reported by Medical Dialogues and official communications from the Delhi Medical Council and the National Medical Commission. The investigation into the doctors’ credentials and the allegations of medical negligence is ongoing. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven otherwise, and the final outcome will depend on the findings of the relevant authorities.
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