Quack Doctor Accused of Causing Death, Bail Plea Rejected By Punjab and Haryana High Court

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has denied bail to Mohammad Faheem, a quack doctor accused of causing a patient's death through incorrect treatment.

Justice Namit Kumar noted that the investigation exposed the accused operating a clinic without a valid medical degree, violating legal requirements.

The court noted that Faheem attempted to destroy evidence by disposing of the victim's body near a paying guest accommodation.

Justice Kumar said, "The trial court must determine whether the accused was a registered medical practitioner and operating a clinic based on evidence presented."

The court highlighted that unlicensed medical practitioners pose a major risk to public health in India.

Justice Kumar observed, "Despite legal frameworks, numerous individuals practice medicine without proper credentials endangering patient's lives leading to misdiagnosis and improper treatment leading to worsening of patient conditions. They are a menace to public health in India."

Faheem allegedly operated a medical clinic in Manesar, Gurugram, without proper qualifications.

Complainant Ram Avatar alleged that Faheem's wrongful treatment led to his nephew Leeladhar's death.

Avatar claimed to have seen CCTV footage showing Leeladhar visiting Faheem's clinic before his death.

Faheem's counsel argued that the post-mortem report indicated natural death due to breathlessness.

The counsel submitted, "Faheem had administered a Monosef injection to the victim, which is only an antibiotic."

The counsel also argued that there was no intention or knowledge on Faheem's part to cause death.

The court dismissed the plea, citing the need for further medical evidence.

Justice Kumar said, "No doubt, prosecution witnesses namely Puroshottom and Ram Avtar have not supported the case of the prosecution but at the same time, this fact cannot be lost sight of that the investigational agency still needs to support their case and determine the actual cause of death, which will be examined by the trial court."

The court noted that a person convicted under Section 304(II) IPC faces up to ten years' imprisonment.

Senior Advocate Vinod Ghai and Advocate Arnav Ghai represented Faheem, while Deputy Advocate General Saurabh Mohunta represented the State of Haryana.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Vaishnavi Dalvi/MSM)