20 fake clinics shut down in Dakshina Kannada; 582 quacks booked across Karnataka

20 fake clinics shut down in Dakshina Kannada; 582 quacks booked across Karnataka

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, September 8, 2026: The Karnataka Health Department has intensified its crackdown on quackery, shutting down 582 illegal clinics operated by unqualified medical practitioners across the state since 2024. Dakshina Kannada district alone has reported 20 such cases.

The action against fake doctors and unrecognised clinics gained momentum in 2025 following a directive from the High Court. Between 2024 and 2026, authorities closed 582 illegal clinics across Karnataka. Of those booked, 87 offenders have been fined, while legal proceedings against 29 others are currently pending in courts.

A majority of the illegal clinics were found in rural areas. Kalaburagi topped the state with 127 cases, followed by Raichur (124), Dharwad (75), Kolar (31), Vijayapura (24), Ballari (23), Dakshina Kannada (20), Chikkaballapur (17), Bengaluru Urban (16) and Koppal (14).

Health Department investigations revealed that many of those posing as doctors did not possess recognised medical degrees. Several had previously worked as nurses, ward boys or hospital assistants and had acquired limited practical knowledge by observing qualified doctors treat patients.

Using this experience, they established clinics, particularly in rural areas, where they administered allopathic medicines, injections and intravenous fluids despite lacking the required qualifications. The department also found cases of practitioners holding Ayurveda or Homeopathy qualifications illegally practising allopathy.

In view of the risks posed by such unqualified practitioners, the Health Department has urged the public to exercise caution while seeking treatment, even for common ailments such as fever and cough.

People have been advised to verify whether the doctor treating them holds a valid registration certificate issued by the appropriate medical council before seeking medical treatment.