Politics frequently turns into a platform for disputes that go beyond simple issue discussions. A recent disagreement between the Congress party and Hemang Joshi, the BJP’s candidate for the Lok Sabha, in Vadodara was caused by the use of the title “Dr.” in campaign materials. The Congress party objected, claiming that Joshi was not permitted to use the prefix “Dr.” in his campaign, citing guidelines from the Indian Medical Council (IMC).
Politics frequently turns into a platform for disputes that go beyond simple issue discussions. A recent disagreement between the Congress party and Hemang Joshi, the BJP’s candidate for the Lok Sabha, in Vadodara was caused by the use of the title “Dr.” in campaign materials. The Congress party objected, claiming that Joshi was not permitted to use the prefix “Dr.” in his campaign, citing guidelines from the Indian Medical Council (IMC).
Physiotherapist Dr. Gunjan Kakadiya, one of the leading voices in the protest, emphasized the ignorance of Congress officials on the laws that now regulate physiotherapy practices. He made the point that the criticisms were grounded in an antiquated IMA white paper that is no longer endorsed by the organization itself. Furthermore, he stated that the physiotherapy council was granted official legitimacy under PM Narendra Modi’s leadership as Chief Minister, which further validates their use of the prefix “Dr.”
The seriousness of the matter among physiotherapists, who feel deceived and humiliated by the concerns expressed against Hemang Joshi’s campaign material, is highlighted by the Congress party’s demand for a public apology. This episode reminds us of the complexity of political campaigns and the importance of having a sophisticated knowledge of different professions and their legal systems.
SOURCE:
TIMES OF INDIA
