Palamu, Jharkhand, September 9, 2025 - In Palamu, authorities shut down a clinic officially designated for Ayurvedic medicine after it was found performing a caesarean section (C-section), a procedure beyond its legal scope. The district administration sealed the facility, citing serious concerns about patient safety and regulatory non-compliance. Officials launched an investigation to determine responsibility and assess potential harm to patients.
MedBound Times reported a previous incident in Bihar’s Siwan district, a video went viral showing an Ayurvedic practitioner, identified as Kanchan Kumari, performing a C-section in what appeared to be a makeshift, non-sterile room. The video captured scenes of the practitioner operating without protective equipment, no mask or clothing suitable for surgery. Family members and onlookers gathered in the room, one recording the surgery on mobile phone. The lack of medical oversight and hygiene protocols sparked widespread outrage and demands for legal action.
In India, Ayurvedic surgeons hold the BAMS (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) degree, which includes limited surgical training. Some states permit BAMS practitioners in rural settings to carry out modern medical interventions during emergencies, including surgeries. And according to AYUSH Ministry, under Indian Medicine Central Council (Minimum Standards Requirement for Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani Colleges and Attached Hospitals) Regulations notified in 2012 and 2013, conducting deliveries by Ayurvedic, homeopathic doctors posted in government facilities are allowed to do deliveries, but not cesarians.[2]
However, this practice remains highly contested. The Medical Council of India (now superseded by the National Medical Commission) has taken a restrictive position, asserting that Ayurvedic doctors cannot perform surgeries like C-sections in allopathic hospitals or settings without proper infrastructure.
In educational institutions, Ayurvedic colleges have performed some surgical procedures such as C-sections only under supervision from allopathic specialists, including anesthetists and gynecologists, to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
Additionally, post graduate courses have been introduced recently in Ayurveda which introduces post graduate degree in surgical branch in Ayurveda viz-Shalya (Surgery), Shalakya (Eye, E.N.T. & Dentistry) & Strirog Prasuti Tantra (Gynecology and Obstetrics). P.G. Degree courses [M.S.(Ayurveda)] of 3 Years duration after B.A.M.S., which will enable the ayurvedic doctors to do surgeries soon.[3]
The changing policies are causing confusion among the medical fraternity over the existing regulations.
Ayurvedic clinics are not licensed to perform high-risk procedures like C-sections without proper infrastructure or regulatory approval.
The sealed clinic in Jharkhand and the viral video from Bihar highlight gaps in enforcement of medical standards.
While some Ayurvedic practitioners receive surgical training, legal and professional safeguards, such as oversight from allopathic specialists are crucial for safe practice.
References
Press Information Bureau, “AYUSH Doctors Conducting Deliveries,” Press Information Bureau, Government of India, March 17, 2015, accessed September 8, 2025, https://www.pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=117177.
Press Information Bureau, “IMCC Regulations Allow Post Graduate Degree in Surgical Branch in Ayurveda,” Press Information Bureau, Government of India, February 3, 2017, accessed September 8, 2025, https://www.pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=158050.
(Rh/Eth/TL/MSM)