One MBBS degree, two doctors in govt jobs:Bhaskar probe exposes missing registration, document fraud at joining stage

A shocking case has emerged from Madhya Pradesh’s health department, where two doctors have allegedly been working in government service for over 15 years using the same MBBS degree. Both reportedly earned substantial salaries, treated patients in government hospitals, and even ran private clinics—without authorities detecting the duplication. Investigations reveal that while one doctor holds a genuine degree and valid registration, the other is suspected of using forged credentials. Officials, however, claim they were unaware of the issue. How the investigation unfolded The probe began in Balaghat district, where a team visited the government hospital in Birsa. They found that Dr. Sunil Kumar Singh, posted as Block Medical Officer (BMO), was absent. Staff informed that he had traveled to Rewa and his residence was in Damoh village. Upon reaching Damoh, the team found his name displayed at a health center. Locals and nearby medical store operators confirmed that he runs a small private clinic near his home, though no signboard was visible. A few days later, Dr. Singh was spotted attending patients at the Birsa Community Health Center. Discrepancies in documents An examination of Dr. Sunil Kumar Singh’s joining documents revealed multiple inconsistencies: Another doctor claims original degree Meanwhile, the team contacted another doctor, Dr. Sunil Kumar, currently posted in Dewas. He presented his original MBBS degree and permanent registration. When shown a copy of the degree used by the Balaghat-based doctor, he confirmed it was a photocopy of his own certificate. He denied knowing anyone using his credentials and clarified: Medical council records point to one individual Information obtained from the Madhya Pradesh Medical Council showed that all official records correspond to only one individual—the Dewas-based doctor. The council presented permanent registration (No. 2909), which carries his photograph. This strongly indicates that the Dewas doctor holds the legitimate registration, while the Balaghat-based doctor’s credentials are questionable. Officials acknowledge complaint Balaghat Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. Paresh Uplap confirmed receiving a complaint regarding BMO Sunil Kumar’s documents. He stated that an inquiry is underway and discrepancies, if any, will be clarified after investigation. Attempts to contact the Balaghat-based doctor for his response were unsuccessful. He neither answered calls nor responded to messages seeking clarification. Authorities yet to act Health Commissioner S. Dhanaraju said he was unaware of the case and declined to comment officially. He added that action would be considered once full details are available. Experts cite verification lapses Dr. Rakesh Malviya, chief coordinator of the Madhya Pradesh Doctors Federation, stated that it is impossible for two doctors to practice using the same degree and registration. “If such a case has occurred, it indicates serious negligence by the health department,” he said, adding that the discrepancy likely arose during document verification in recruitment—whether through MPPSC or direct interviews.