04 August,2026 02:27 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
MARD has demanded the immediate suspension of the BHMS-CCMP registration process until the court delivers its final verdict. Representational Pic
The Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) on Tuesday announced an indefinite statewide strike beginning midnight on Wednesday, protesting the state government's proposal to grant Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC) registration to homoeopathy practitioners.
In a statement, MARD said that while emergency and casualty services will continue during the first 24 hours in the interest of patient safety, outpatient department (OPD) services, routine duties, and academic activities at government medical college hospitals across Maharashtra will remain suspended.
MARD said that despite multiple rounds of discussions with the state government and the authorities concerned, it has not received satisfactory assurances regarding the implementation of the BHMS-CCMP (Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology) policy.
The association said that in the absence of a clear legal and regulatory framework, and with the matter currently pending before the courts, Central MARD has decided to launch an indefinite statewide strike from midnight on August 5.
The Maharashtra Medical Council had issued a notification on June 30 permitting homoeopathy practitioners to prescribe modern medicines after completing a six-month Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology (CCMP).
MARD has demanded the immediate suspension of the BHMS-CCMP registration process until the court delivers its final verdict.
The association also sought:
MARD said resident doctors will continue to provide emergency and casualty services during the first 24 hours to ensure patient safety.
However, OPD services, elective procedures, routine duties and academic activities will remain suspended during this period.
If no positive resolution is reached, all resident doctor services, including emergency services, will be withdrawn from August 6 onwards until further directions are issued by Central MARD.
"The Central MARD reiterates that this agitation is not against any system of medicine or its practitioners. The movement is solely aimed at ensuring that any policy affecting patient care is implemented only after due legal scrutiny, scientific evaluation, and the establishment of an appropriate regulatory framework," the statement said.
