.webp&w=384&q=75){kind=logo}
Loading, please wait...
Loading, please wait...
A government inquiry recently concluded a major investigation into medical ethics in India. Specifically, it exposed how 30 medical practitioners accepted sponsored foreign trips to Paris and Monaco from AbbVie Pharma. This lavish excursion cost over Rs 1.9 crore. However, a massive controversy erupted when the list forwarded to the National Medical Commission (NMC) contained only 27 names.
In December 2024, the apex committee on pharmaceutical marketing practices ordered the department to send the list of offenders to the NMC. Subsequently, the department delayed sending this list for nine long months. When the NMC finally received the document in September 2025, three names had mysteriously disappeared. Consequently, the medical regulator only received 27 names instead of the original 30. Furthermore, both the Department of Pharmaceuticals and the NMC have refused to publicly reveal the identities of these doctors.
According to the NMC Act, state councils have the primary jurisdiction to investigate professional misconduct. Therefore, the NMC forwarded the 27 names to nine different state medical councils for inquiry and appropriate action. Meanwhile, a Right to Information (RTI) query filed with the Prime Minister's Office revealed that the Kerala State Medical Council (KSMC) received one of these names. Currently, the KSMC is seeking an explanation from the concerned doctor. However, the exact names of the other eight states involved remain undisclosed. Additionally, the NMC can take over the probe if the state councils fail to decide within six months. Specifically, NMC Chairperson Dr. Abhijat Sheth assured that the commission will act firmly as appropriate.
Q1: Why are the doctors being investigated?
Specifically, a government inquiry found them guilty of accepting a luxury trip from AbbVie Pharma. This act clearly violates medical ethics.
Q2: Why did only 27 names reach the NMC?
Although 30 doctors were initially found guilty, the list forwarded to the commission contained only 27 names. Currently, the department has not explained why three names disappeared.
Q3: What action can state medical councils take?
State medical councils have the power to investigate ethical misconduct. Consequently, they can suspend or cancel medical licenses if necessary.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or replace professional judgment. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
Read summarized clinical updates, watch expert medical content, and earn CME certifications right from your smartphone.
Open your smartphone camera to scan and install.
A government inquiry found 30 doctors guilty of accepting a ₹1.9 crore trip, but only 27 names reached the National Medical Commission for action....
3 months ago
A new case study illuminates how functional connectivity changes drive recovery from pure alexia following posterior cerebral artery infarction. Functional reorganization supports reading recovery despite permanent structural tract disconnection, highlighting key implications for stroke rehabilitation.
Today
A premature neonate developed upper limb compartment syndrome after uterine rupture extruded the arm through a scar defect. Conservative management with continuous monitoring yielded complete functional recovery and normal limb growth at 10-year follow-up, highlighting non-operative safety in selected cases.
Today
Dendritic cells bridge innate and adaptive immunity in myocardial infarction. This review explores their pathological roles, circulating dynamics, novel tolerogenic interventions, and how standard cardiovascular medications modulate dendritic cells to improve post-infarction myocardial repair and patient outcomes.
Today
Endoscopic posterior cervical fusion combines minimally invasive decompression, joint preparation, and rigid screw-rod fixation for atlantoaxial pathologies. Early clinical findings demonstrate solid bony union, excellent symptom relief, and minimal soft-tissue morbidity without significant vascular compromise.
Yesterday
Atherosclerosis involves extensive glycometabolic reprogramming across immune and vascular cells. This review examines how glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway, and lactate-driven epigenetic shifts fuel plaque vulnerability, while highlighting novel therapeutic targets like PFKFB3 and LDHA.
Today
