Maharashtra resident doctors strike over homoeopathy registration

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (MARD) launched an indefinite statewide strike starting midnight on August 5, 2026, to protest the India — Government of Maharashtra's (MMC) decision to allow homoeopathy practitioners to register and prescribe allopathic medicines after completing a six-month Certificate Course in Modern Pharmacology (CCMP). The MMC issued the notification on June 30, 2026. MARD demands immediate suspension of the BHMS-CCMP registration process until a final court verdict, citing lack of a clear legal and regulatory framework and pending court matters. During the first 24 hours, emergency and casualty services continue, but OPD services, routine duties, and academic activities at government medical college hospitals are suspended. If no resolution is reached, all resident doctor services, including emergency services, will be withdrawn from August 6. The strike has support from the Indian Medical Association, Maharashtra Association of Resident Doctors, Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, Association of State Medical Interns, Maharashtra Association of Gazetted Medical Officers, and Maharashtra State Medical Teachers Association. MARD emphasizes the agitation is not against any system of medicine but aims to ensure patient safety and proper regulatory oversight. A debate between homoeopathy and allopathy practitioners was held at the India — Mumbai Press Club.