The Maharashtra Government has told the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court that it is formulating a new set of rules to curb the operation of illegal pathology laboratories across the state. The court, while taking note of the submission, has directed the government to file a detailed affidavit next week outlining the proposed regulations and the action plan for their enforcement.
The direction was issued by a division bench of Justice Anil Kilor and Justice Raj Wakode while hearing a criminal Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Yavatmal-based social activist Digambar Pajgade. The PIL raises concerns over the large number of pathology laboratories allegedly functioning without the qualifications mandated under existing regulations. As per current norms, pathology labs can be operated only by registered medical practitioners holding an MBBS degree or a postgraduate qualification in Pathology, Microbiology, or Biochemistry.
However, the petitioner alleged that numerous laboratories across Maharashtra are being run by individuals possessing only Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (DMLT) or Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology (CMLT) qualifications. According to the petition, such practices pose a significant threat to public health, as inaccurate diagnostic reports could result in incorrect treatment and serious consequences for patients.
During earlier proceedings, the High Court had sought information regarding the measures taken by the State Government against unauthorised pathology centres and had asked authorities to submit a comprehensive report.
Responding to the court’s query, the government informed the bench that the Public Health Department is currently drafting a regulatory framework aimed at strengthening oversight and enabling effective action against illegally operated pathology laboratories.
After hearing the submissions, the bench directed the State Government to place on record a detailed affidavit explaining the proposed rules, their scope, and the mechanism through which they would be implemented. The petition was argued in person by Digambar Pajgade, while Advocate Rohan Chandurkar represented the intervening applicants and assisted the court during the hearing.
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