Cosmetic surgeries require thorough research, be aware of “fake clinics”
In the wake of an upswing in cosmetic surgeries across India, the trend toward quick transformations has led some individuals to make dangerous choices, often opting for clinics based solely on marketing claims. This practice can result in life-threatening consequences. The death of Muhammad Mazin following a procedure in Mangalore has raised concerns about the dangers of choosing clinics based on marketing claims. This incident has sparked discussions about the risks of unregulated practices in the cosmetic surgery industry.
Not all “clinics” are medically certified
It is imperative for prospective cosmetic surgery patients to do comprehensive research on the credentials and qualifications of centres, as well as the experience of the medical staff involved. Just because outlets present themselves as “clinics” does not necessarily mean that such establishments are medically certified.
A concerning trend is the proliferation of unlicensed clinics, with the Karnataka Health Department data indicating that since 2007, clinics and laboratories run by 1436 ‘fake’ doctors have been sealed as of November 2023.
Experts from the field that VB consulted emphasised that thorough research is crucial. They noted that when considering any surgical procedure, it is essential to evaluate the entire healthcare setup—surgeons, anaesthetists, back-up ICU services, and the availability of specialists for emergencies. Furthermore, board certificates and accreditations are key factors to consider when selecting a clinic.
Private clinics' registration mandatory under KPME Act
Notably, under the Karnataka Private Medical Establishments (KPME) Act, it is mandatory for all private medical establishments in the state to obtain a KPME registration. Section 19 of the KPME Amendment Act, 2017, stipulates that anyone who establishes or runs an unregistered private medical institution can face imprisonment for up to three years and a fine of Rs 1 lakh. Furthermore, such institutions are legally required to provide emergency care without demanding advance payment.
Cosmetic surgeries can be fatal without thorough research
The tragic incident in Karnataka, where a 32-year-old man, Muhammad Mazin, reportedly died following a cosmetic surgery procedure earlier this month has gained significant attention. He had visited a private cosmetic surgery and transplant clinic in Mangaluru for a liposuction procedure to treat gynecomastia (surgical correction of enlarged breasts). The surgery was extended for hours, and his family received no updates until they were informed of a critical health decline. Mazin was rushed to a private hospital in Kodialbail, where he was declared dead on arrival. This case is not a one-off incident. A 28-year-old man in Hyderabad allegedly died in February this year after undergoing a cosmetic dental procedure at a private clinic to enhance his smile just days before his wedding.
Be aware of misleading advertisements
An area of concern is when people fall victim to misleading advertisements and claims about cosmetic surgeries. It is always better for the patient to meet the doctor in person and assess their qualifications. Patients should seek professionals who instil confidence and demonstrate expertise, ensuring they feel comfortable with the clinic's setup.
The onus lies upon the surgeon and patient to do their research. Effective communication between them is paramount. Asking the right questions to make an informed decision goes a long way. Experts have stressed that for a successful operation outcome, it is a 50-50 job between the surgeon and the patient.
Parameters for NABH accreditation
It is important to do extensive research about the whole facility available at the clinic. A good place to start is to check whether clinics possess accreditations from recognised bodies, such as National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH), which establishes quality standards in healthcare.
NABH has developed relevant and accessible quality assurance methods for clinics. The parameters for accreditation include access to quality treatment, good care of patients, hygiene, upholding patient rights, facilities management, fire safety measures, infection control, and managing records, among others.
Accreditation signifies a commitment to continuous improvement and patient safety, ensuring that rights are upheld and quality care is provided. Experts advocate for choosing established, reputable institutions equipped with experienced professionals, state-of-the-art technology, hygienic equipment, safety measures, board certifications, and accreditations to mitigate risks associated with cosmetic procedures.
The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the desire for cosmetic enhancements, driven partly by social media influence. Common cosmetic procedures among men include gynecomastia while women frequently seek rhinoplasty (nose job), lip job, and body contouring.
Take your time before making a final choice
As cosmetic surgery becomes increasingly popular, it’s essential for individuals to approach these procedures with caution. Instead of being swayed by flashy advertisements or marketing claims, patients should take the time to thoroughly research and verify the credentials of clinics and surgeons. Choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon is critical to minimising risks and achieving satisfactory outcomes. Moreover, understanding the potential risks and having in-depth discussions with healthcare providers about the procedure can provide clarity and help set realistic expectations.
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UK Professor Nitasha Kaul's Overseas Citizenship of India cancelled
Academician decries move as "transnational repression"
London/New Delhi: Professor Nitasha Kaul, a London-based academic, announced on May 18, 2025, via a social media post that her Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card has been cancelled by the Indian government. She described the move as a "bad faith, vindictive, cruel example of transnational repression" intended to punish her for her scholarly work critical of the Modi government's policies concerning minorities and democracy.
The cancellation follows an incident in February 2024 when Professor Kaul, who holds a British passport and held an OCI card, was denied entry into India upon arrival at Bengaluru airport. She had been invited by the then Congress-led Karnataka state government to speak at a conference on "The Constitution and Unity in India."
According to an image of the letter shared by Professor Kaul, the Indian government stated that it had been "brought to the notice of the Government of India that you have been found indulging in anti-India activities, motivated by malice and complete disregard for facts or history." The letter further accused her of regularly targeting India and its institutions on matters of India's sovereignty through "numerous inimical writings, speeches and journalistic activities at various international forums and on social media platforms."
Professor Kaul, who is a Professor of Politics, International Relations, and Critical Interdisciplinary Studies and the Director of the Centre for the Study of Democracy (CSD) at the University of Westminster, London, vehemently rejects these accusations. She stated she had provided a 20,000-word response to what she termed the government's "ridiculous inanity about ‘anti-India’," but the OCI was cancelled through a "rigged process."
In her social media posts, Professor Kaul lamented the decision, questioning how the "mother of democracy" could deny her access to her mother in India. She characterized the action as stemming from "thin-skinned, petty insecurity with no respect for well-intentioned dissent."
The February 2024 denial of entry had already sparked controversy. At the time, immigration officials reportedly cited "orders from Delhi" without providing formal reasons, though Professor Kaul mentioned informal references to her past criticism of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The Ministry of External Affairs had then responded by stating that the entry of foreign nationals into India is a "sovereign decision." Unofficial government sources had indicated that a "preventive lookout circular" was issued against her due to her alleged "pro-separatist" and "anti-India" stance on Kashmir.
The BJP in Karnataka had criticised the state government for inviting her, labelling her an "anti-India element." Conversely, the then-Karnataka government and various international human rights organizations and academic bodies had condemned the denial of entry.
Professor Kaul has been an outspoken commentator on Indian politics, including the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, and has testified before international bodies such as the US Congress on human rights in the region. She maintains her work is academic and pro-democracy, not anti-India.
The cancellation of her OCI card effectively bars her from entering India, a country to which she has personal and academic ties. This incident adds to a growing list of academics, journalists, and activists of Indian origin whose OCI status has been revoked or who have been denied entry to India in recent years, raising concerns about freedom of speech and dissent. Reports indicate that over 100 OCI cards were cancelled by the Indian government between 2014 and May 2023. Furthermore, in 2021, new rules were introduced requiring OCI cardholders to obtain special permission for activities such as research and journalism.
