Ri-Bhoi admin warns against high-risk deliveries and illegal medical practice

NONGPOH, June 29: The Ri-Bhoi District Administration has issued a stern warning against the unauthorised conduct of high-risk deliveries by unregistered Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs), stating that strict legal action will be taken against those violating maternal healthcare regulations.
In an advisory issued Monday, the administration expressed concern over unregistered TBAs performing unassisted home deliveries, including cases identified as High-Risk Pregnancies (HRPs). It emphasised that under the Meghalaya government’s MOTHER Policy, institutional delivery is a priority to ensure the safety of both mother and child.
The advisory noted that managing obstetric emergencies—such as severe anaemia, hypertension, or prolonged labour—in home settings without medical facilities is strictly prohibited. It reminded TBAs that the practice of midwifery and medicine is legally restricted to qualified professionals registered under the National Nursing and Midwifery Commission Act, 2023, and the National Medical Commission Act, 2019.
The administration also flagged reports of unregistered attendants allegedly administering restricted allopathic drugs, including Oxytocin, to induce labour. The unauthorised stocking and use of such Schedule H medicines is a serious offence under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. TBAs found administering injections, IV fluids, or prescription drugs face immediate police action, including raids and arrest for medical quackery.
Stressing a zero-tolerance approach, the administration stated that the consent of a pregnant woman does not provide legal immunity to TBAs engaging in illegal practice. In the event of injury or death, TBAs may face prosecution under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for endangering life or causing death by negligence.
Traditional institutions, including headmen and village councils, have been directed to ensure compliance and report any unauthorised medical practices or illegal stocking of medicines to the authorities. Pregnant women and their families are urged to use nearest health centres or contact local ASHAs for safe, institutional delivery.