Expressing serious concern over the slow implementation of the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) Act, 2021, the Supreme Court has directed all States, Union Territories, and the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions to submit detailed compliance affidavits before its next hearing on September 22, 2026.
A Bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta observed that key provisions of the Act remain unimplemented despite earlier directions issued by the Court in August 2024. The Bench warned that Chief Secretaries and Health Secretaries could be summoned personally if adequate compliance is not demonstrated.
The matter stems from a petition filed by allied healthcare professionals and medical technologists seeking full implementation of the NCAHP Act, which came into force on May 25, 2021. The Act was enacted to establish a regulatory framework for education, training, and professional standards across allied and healthcare professions in India.
During the proceedings, petitioners informed the Court that several States have yet to notify or operationalize State Councils mandated under the Act. They also highlighted delays in framing rules and regulations necessary for establishing Professional Councils, Advisory Councils, and Autonomous Boards envisioned under the legislation.
The Court noted that the regulatory gaps have allowed unauthorized educational institutions and affiliating bodies to continue operating without adequate oversight. It emphasized that the Act was designed to safeguard public interest and ensure uniform standards for allied healthcare education and services across the country.
The Union Government, represented by Additional Solicitor General Vikramjit Banerjee, submitted that much of the responsibility for implementing the law rests with State Governments and Union Territories, which must complete the required statutory processes.
Taking note of the continued delays, the Supreme Court directed all States, UTs, and the National Commission to provide detailed status reports on the notification of councils, framing of rules under the Act, and other measures required for its effective implementation.
The Court made it clear that failure to comply with its directions may result in the personal appearance of senior government officials at the next hearing, underscoring the urgency of operationalizing the law more than five years after its enactment.
The case is scheduled for further hearing on September 22, 2026.
