Four Arrested for Defrauding Hospital Patients with Fake Ayurvedic Medicines

In a disturbing case of medical fraud, four individuals have been arrested in Mumbai for allegedly deceiving hospital patients by selling fake Ayurvedic medicines purported to cure serious diseases, including cancer. The suspects reportedly charged patients between ₹5,000 and ₹2.5 lakh for these fraudulent remedies.

## Details of the Scheme

The Bhoiwada police launched an investigation after multiple complaints from patients and their families about a gang that falsely claimed to offer a 100% cure through Ayurvedic treatments. The accused approached individuals outside prominent hospitals such as KEM Hospital, Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children, and Tata Memorial Hospital, promising miraculous cures for serious ailments.

According to police reports, the so-called "medicines" were merely concoctions made from common ingredients such as bitter gourd, bottle gourd, gooseberry, tulsi (holy basil), and coconut oil, packaged as powders or juices.

## Identifying the Suspects

The suspects have been identified as:

- Chalu Swami Melkundi, 29, from Andheri
- Mangesh Varghanti, 27, also from Andheri
- Parshuram Mallakhule, 36, from Mankurd
- Dinesh Varghanti, 24, also from Mankhurd

Senior police inspector Sachin Kadam confirmed that an offense had been registered against the group, following complaints from numerous victims.

## Modus Operandi

Victims reported that the accused would adjust their charges based on the urgency and financial status of the patients, sometimes demanding exorbitant amounts. One patient was defrauded of ₹2.5 lakh under the pretense of a complete cure. Initially, the gang provided mixtures of various juices and powders, claiming they would lead to recovery within a month. If patients sought follow-up after this period, they were directed to a Thane-based Ayurvedic center.

## Legal Actions and Forensic Investigation

Authorities have emphasized that the accused lacked any certifications or qualifications to practice Ayurveda and did not possess a license to sell medicines. Police have taken samples of the fraudulent products, which will be sent for forensic testing.

The arrests occurred after police surveillance outside KEM Hospital led to the suspects being apprehended while attempting to sell their fake medicines. They have been charged under sections 125B (endangering life or personal safety) and 318(4) (cheating) of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.

This case highlights the urgent need for increased awareness about medical fraud and the importance of seeking legitimate medical advice and treatments.