In a recent development, leaders from the esteemed Homoeopathic fraternity have come forward to vehemently condemn disparaging remarks made regarding the practice of homoeopathy in a parliamentary session. Dr. Sudipta Narayan Roy, Chairman of the National Ayush Task Force, ASSOCHAM; Dr. Rathin Chakraborty, a globally acclaimed Homoeopath and former Mayor of Howrah; and Dr. Sahidul Islam, former Executive Member of the Central Council of Homoeopathy (Govt. of India) & Joint Secretary General of The Homoeopathy Medical Association India, collectively addressed the issue and demanded rectification.
The remarks in question were made by Rajya Sabha Member Mr. Saket Gokhale of TMC, who referred to homoeopathy as “a form of quackery” during a parliamentary session on February 6th, 2024. This statement has not only caused discontent within the homoeopathic community but has also offended millions of individuals across the nation who rely on homoeopathy as their preferred mode of treatment.
Dr. Sudipta Narayan Roy expressed grave concern over such remarks, emphasizing that homoeopathy enjoys global recognition and practice. He stressed that while certain regulatory restrictions exist to ensure patient safety, homoeopathy is not banned anywhere in the world.
Dr. Rathin Chakraborty, an eminent Homoeopath and former Mayor of Howrah, highlighted the rich legacy of homoeopathy in West Bengal, often referred to as the “citadel of homoeopathy.” He reminded the detractors of the endorsement homoeopathy has received from luminaries such as Dr. Mahendra Lal Sarkar, the physician of Thakur Ramakrishna Paramhansa. Dr. Chakraborty questioned the appropriateness of dismissing homoeopathy without a comprehensive understanding of its scientific basis.
Dr. Sahidul Islam, representing The Homoeopathy Medical Association India, called for an immediate public apology from the concerned individual and urged recognition of homoeopathy’s significant role in India’s healthcare system. He emphasized the need for responsible discourse and cautioned against biased comments that undermine the credibility of homoeopathy.
Furthermore, the leaders expressed apprehension regarding the motive behind such derogatory remarks, especially at a time when the Indian Ayush System is gaining global recognition. They asserted that such remarks not only insult the Ayush sector but also tarnish the reputation of Bengal, a hub of homoeopathic excellence.
Dr. Rathin Chakraborty emphasized that the principles of homoeopathy trace back to ancient texts like the Charak Samhita and cited the global recognition of homoeopathy, even by prestigious scientific journals like “Nature.”
In conclusion, the Homoeopathic fraternity demands accountability, respect, and recognition for the significance of homoeopathy in India’s healthcare landscape. They urge authorities to take appropriate action against unwarranted disparagement and to promote a conducive environment for the growth and acceptance of homoeopathy as a credible form of medical treatment.
