Class 11 Student Dies After Treatment by Quack Doctor in Khargone

Khargone, Madhya Pradesh, September 4, 2025 – A Class 11 student died after receiving treatment from an unregistered medical practitioner in Khargone district, triggering an investigation by authorities.

Officials said the 17-year-old, identified as Suresh, developed fever, cough, and cold symptoms on Tuesday evening. Hostel staff took him to a local practitioner, who administered injections. The student reportedly collapsed soon after and was shifted to the district hospital, where doctors declared him dead.

District Collector Bhavya Mittal confirmed that the practitioner’s clinic has been sealed and the documents submitted for registration are under verification. The hostel warden, Jitendra Mandloi, has been relieved of duties pending inquiry.

Assistant Commissioner for Tribal Welfare, Iqbal Hussain Adil, directed the Block Education Officer of Maheshwar to submit a detailed report within three days. Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr. M.S. Sisodiya said preliminary checks revealed the clinic did not have valid credentials. A panchnama was prepared during the investigation.

Police officials said the body was sent for post-mortem before being handed over to the family. Cremation was carried out on Wednesday afternoon, Balakawada police station in-charge Ritesh Yadav confirmed.

Authorities added that further action will be taken once the inquiry report is submitted.

The case has renewed focus on the presence of unregistered medical practitioners in tribal and rural areas. Officials said complaints of such practices are common, and enforcement drives have been carried out in the past.

A landmark study published in the British Medical Journal highlighted that unqualified medical providers deliver a significant portion of frontline healthcare in rural India. Researchers observed that in several states, these practitioners are often the first point of contact for patients, particularly in underserved tribal and village communities. The study cautioned that while such providers are more accessible, their lack of training increases the risk of misdiagnosis and unsafe treatments. ¹

Public health experts warn that this often delays proper treatment and increases risks in medical emergencies.

In recent years, state health departments have intensified campaigns against quacks, especially in districts with large tribal populations. Officials say stricter monitoring of hostels and rural healthcare centers is being planned to prevent similar incidents.

Next Steps

The district administration has assured that responsibility will be fixed after the inquiry is completed. Officials said disciplinary action may also follow if negligence is found in hostel management.

The case remains under investigation.

Reference:

1. Kumar, Sanjay. 2004. “Much Health Care in Rural India Comes from Unqualified Practitioners.” BMJ 328 (7446): 975. https://www.bmj.com/content/328/7446/975.1

(Rh/Eth/ARC/MSM)