In Brief
This case concerns whether traditional practitioners (Paramparya Vaidyas) practicing indigenous medicines in Kerala without formal medical qualifications can continue their practice. The Supreme Court upheld statutory requirements mandating registration and recognized qualifications for all medical practitioners, including those in Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems. While Section 17(3)(c) of the Indian Medicine Central Council Act, 1970 provides a limited exception for those practicing five years prior to enactment in states without a medical register, the appellants failed to qualify. The Court rejected arguments based on tradition, family custom, or hereditary knowledge, emphasizing that public health protection against unqualified practitioners overrides such considerations. All appeals were dismissed.
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