Madhya Pradesh Minister Prahlad Patel has called for a strict investigation into the Damoh fake doctor case, which has shocked the state following the arrest of a man accused of conducting unauthorized surgeries and allegedly causing the deaths of at least seven patients at a local missionary hospital.
Speaking to ANI, Patel said, “That institution (missionary hospital) has been controversial in the past. This is a serious matter, and that place has had ongoing issues. A strict investigation should ensue, and there must be no politics involved. The priority should be supporting the victims and ensuring the culprits are punished.”
The controversy erupted after police arrested N. John Camm, who posed as a doctor and performed medical procedures at Mission Hospital in Damoh. Authorities say his actions led to several patient deaths and injuries. He was arrested in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, and is being brought back to Damoh for further legal proceedings.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also addressed the incident, assuring the public that the state would act decisively. “In the Damoh incident, our government is taking strict action. We do not delay justice. If there are similar cases elsewhere in the state, I’ve instructed the health department to act without hesitation,” he stated.
An FIR has been registered at Kotwali Police Station against the accused, based on a report submitted by the Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO). The report revealed that the accused conducted medical procedures such as angiography and angioplasty despite lacking proper registration.
CSP Abhishek Tiwari said, “The doctor was practicing medicine without registration in Madhya Pradesh. His Andhra Pradesh medical registration also did not appear on the official website. Several irregularities have emerged, raising further concerns.”
The story took a personal turn when Jitendra Singh Rajput, a relative of one of the victims, shared his experience. “I took my father to the hospital after he complained of chest pain. The doctors diagnosed a heart attack and insisted on surgery. I didn’t have money, but they said the Ayushman card could be used,” he said.
Jitendra added that after the surgery, his father’s condition worsened and he was placed on a ventilator. “They said he would be fine, but he passed away. When we asked about a postmortem, the hospital staff advised against it, saying he had died of a heart attack. We didn’t file a complaint at the time.”
As investigations continue, authorities are working to determine the full extent of the accused’s activities and identify any potential lapses by the hospital administration. The case has triggered widespread outrage and renewed calls for tighter oversight of private healthcare institutions in the state.
