‘Fake’ Cardiologist Performs 15 Surgeries in Madhya Pradesh Hospital, 7 Deaths Spark NHRC Probe
A major healthcare scandal has surfaced in Madhya Pradesh’s Damoh district where a man, allegedly impersonating a renowned cardiologist, performed 15 heart surgeries at a local hospital. The incident has prompted a probe by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) after at least seven deaths were reported between December 2024 and February 2025.
The accused, identified as Narendra Yadav, is alleged to have falsely presented himself as a cardiologist, using the name of renowned UK-based heart specialist Professor John Camm. Yadav reportedly conducted multiple surgeries at the Mission Hospital, a facility linked to the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Yojana.
The case came to light after a formal complaint was lodged with the NHRC, alleging gross medical negligence and the misuse of government healthcare funds. The NHRC has since launched a fact-finding mission, with a team led by commission member Priyank Kanoongo scheduled to visit Damoh from April 7 to 9.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Kanoongo confirmed that seven deaths had occurred at the hospital allegedly due to treatment administered by the fake doctor. “A serious matter has come to our notice regarding a missionary hospital in Damoh where a fake doctor performed heart surgeries, leading to multiple deaths,” he stated.
Damoh’s Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO), Dr Mukesh Jain, and District Health Officer (DHO), Dr Vikram Chauhan, confirmed that two deaths had occurred during the period in question, though the final toll may rise as investigations progress.
District Collector Sudhir Kochar has constituted a special team to investigate the allegations. “We are examining the circumstances surrounding the recent deaths at Mission Hospital. No official comment will be made until the inquiry concludes,” he said.
Family members of deceased patients have come forward with harrowing stories of negligence and deception. Nabi Qureshi’s 63-year-old mother, Raheesa, was admitted after suffering a heart attack in January. She underwent angiography and angioplasty within days, only to suffer another heart attack during the procedure and pass away.
“We were told it was a natural death due to a heart attack, so we didn’t pursue a post-mortem,” said Nabi. “Later we heard through the media that a fake doctor was operating at the hospital. No one from the hospital has contacted us since.”
In another case, Jitendra Singh lost his father, Mangal Singh, who was admitted for what was initially thought to be a minor gastrointestinal issue. He was soon advised heart surgery. “He died just hours after the operation. The doctor was nowhere to be found before or after the surgery. We were asked to purchase an injection for Rs 8,000, but it was never used,” Jitendra said.
The hospital involved is reportedly empanelled under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Yojana, raising concerns over regulatory oversight and accountability. The allegations also include misuse of government healthcare funds, adding another layer to the unfolding controversy.
The incident has triggered widespread concern over verification mechanisms for medical practitioners and the regulation of private healthcare facilities operating under public health schemes.
As the NHRC prepares to launch its investigation, authorities remain tight-lipped about potential legal action. The accused, Narendra Yadav, remains absconding, and efforts to trace his whereabouts are underway.
