Sun Dec 28 11:22:30 UTC 2025: ## News Article:
IMA Condemns Andhra Pradesh Approval of Ayurvedic Doctors Performing Surgery
Vijayawada, India – December 28, 2025 – The Indian Medical Association (IMA) in Andhra Pradesh has strongly criticized the state government’s decision to allow trained Ayurvedic doctors to independently perform surgeries. The decision, approved by Minister for Health, Medical Education and Family Welfare Satya Kumar Yadav on December 23rd, permits Ayurvedic practitioners who have completed postgraduate surgical courses to conduct specific surgical procedures.
The IMA argues that this move is misleading, unscientific, and jeopardizes patient safety. In a press statement, the association emphasized that surgical procedures require extensive, structured training exclusively provided through the MBBS and MS/MCh curricula, as governed by the National Medical Commission (NMC). They argue that deviating from these standards poses a significant risk to patients. The IMA further stated that surgery demands a comprehensive understanding of anatomy, physiology, pathology, and perioperative care, a knowledge base standardized and validated only within modern medicine.
Adding to the controversy, the IMA pointed out that the issue of allowing Indian medicine practitioners to perform surgeries is currently under judicial review by the Supreme Court, with a hearing scheduled for January 8, 2026. The IMA contends that the Minister’s decision is legally untenable and prejudices a matter already under consideration by the court.
The IMA has urged the Minister to retract the decision and refrain from policy commitments that violate existing laws and ongoing Supreme Court proceedings. They warn that if the issue is not addressed, they will pursue legal and democratic remedies at both the state and national levels.
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