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These days, a different debate is going on on social media and this time the medical system ‘Homeopathy’ is at the centre. This whole controversy started when Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma shared a post supporting homeopathy on her Instagram account. After this, internet users got divided into two groups – some started giving arguments in its support and some started rejecting it completely. In view of this growing controversy on social media and sharp statements against doctors, the National Commission for Homeopathy (NCH) has now adopted a very strict attitude.

The Commission has issued an official statement appealing to all stakeholders, media channels and the general public to exercise full responsibility and caution while saying or writing anything about homeopathy and registered doctors to it.

Commission’s warning: Insult of registered doctors will not be tolerated

The Commission has taken suo motu cognizance of the derogatory, defamatory and unverified comments being made against homeopathy and registered doctors on print, digital, electronic and social media platforms. The Commission has clearly said that it is very important to keep in mind the accuracy of facts while talking on public forums. One’s professional reputation cannot be harmed without any solid basis.

Legal action will be taken on using the word ‘quack’

The National Commission has stated in clear words that any social media post, article, press release, website content or any government document (including FIRs, official notices or complaints), which refers to any registered homeopathic doctor as a “quack”, will be considered as outright defamatory and misleading. This is a direct violation of the constitutional and legal rights of doctors and strict legal action will be taken against those doing so as per the rules.

Main guidelines issued by the National Commission

To give the right direction to this debate going on in the party and social media, the Commission has put forward some important points:

• Be careful in making statements: All doctors, medical institutions, media and general public are advised to exercise utmost caution while issuing public statements on issues to homeopathy. Avoid using any language that may be biased, misleading or defamatory.

• Choose legal route for complaint: If a person has any problem or doubt regarding the conduct, treatment or degree of a particular doctor, they should use legal and regulatory means instead of making general comments on social media or defaming the entire profession. Complaint about this can be made directly to the disciplinary committee.

• Committed to protecting reputation: The Commission has reiterated that it is fully committed to protecting the dignity, social status and legal identity of its doctors. Those who deliberately try to question the credibility of any doctor or tarnish his image will be dealt with strictly as per the law.