The Unani Question: Why is Bengal Falling Behind?

Kolkata: Nestled amid the residential complexes of Abdul Halim Lane in central Kolkata is the Calcutta Unani Medical College and Hospital (CUMCH), the only Unani hospital not just in Bengal but in Eastern India. The medical college and hospital have been making desperate attempts to assert their existence at a time when the central government is striving to mainstream the Indian Medicine System (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy).

Founded in 1994 under the aegis of the All India Unani Conference (West Bengal Chapter), with a vision to promote Unani medicine in Eastern India, CUMCH is now affiliated with the West Bengal University of Health Sciences. It also houses a 60-bed hospital on its premises and graduates nearly 40 Unani medical practitioners annually.

Bengal, with an estimated population of over 10 crores, has only one Unani medical college, whereas Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra have 14, 4, and 7, respectively, according to data from the National Commission for the Indian System of Medicine (2022).

A Tale of Apathy

Despite being listed in the National Commission for Indian System of Medicine’s directory of Unani Medical Colleges, CUMCH’s journey has been far from easy.

“We are a private medical college and hospital managed by our governing body. We lack the funds and infrastructure to provide the best—not just for students but also for patients seeking treatment,” said Prof Mohd Ayoob Qasmi, Principal of CUMCH.

Narrating a tale of despair, challenges, and prejudice, Prof Qasmi said, “Even in a state like Uttar Pradesh, there are over seven Unani medical colleges, at least three of which are run by the state government. Just last year, the Yogi government ordered the setting up of a new Unani College in Bareilly. Yet, here in West Bengal, we have been running from pillar to post, urging the government to take over this private institution so that it can be developed for the better.”

Echoing this sentiment, a rather dejected Prof Md Tajuddin said, “We are saddened by the step-motherly treatment of the present government towards CUMCH. We have staged dharnas and taken to the streets to grab the attention of those in power, but nothing has worked so far. The future of everyone associated with CUMCH remains uncertain.”

Lack of Funds, Failing Infrastructure

Pending payments and the lack of development in medical infrastructure and facilities have long plagued CUMCH. Course fees are the only source of funds available for the governing body to manage the institution.

“The state government has reserved 20 seats of the existing seats in our medical college. This amount, along with the course fees we charge students, is used to pay the salaries of the college staff. Needless to say, those working with us often have to wait for months to receive their dues,” informed Prof Qasmi.

Qasmi stressed upon the need of bigger funds and government takeover for the over all development of CUMCH.

Promises Unkept

Under the direction of AYUSH, way back in 2009, the Left Front government passed The Calcutta Unani Medical College and Hospital Bill, 2010 and sent it to the West Bengal Governor for assent. However, the bill remained pending until 2013.

“When the new government took over, we were advised to withdraw the bill from the Centre with the promise of a state government takeover soon. Acting on this assurance, I personally went to Delhi and applied for the bill’s cancellation,” recalled Prof Qasmi.

Subsequently, according to data shared by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the ill-fated bill was officially withdrawn by the state government in 2014. (Source: Ministry of Home Affairs).

Recounting his experience in Delhi, Prof. Qasmi said stoically, “The officers had warned us not to get it cancelled. But we trusted the state government—and see what has happened. Repeated attempts to meet those in power and push for the government takeover have gone in vain. We even went on an indefinite strike, but it didn’t work. Didi has forgotten all about us.”

Without mincing words, Prof. Tajuddin remarked, “This prejudice perhaps stems from the fact that those teaching and studying at CUMCH belong to the minority community.”

Hopes Remain High Despite Challenges

Despite the financial hurdles, the governing body remains hopeful of keeping the institution running while continuing to push for a government takeover, as they believe there are ample career opportunities for those pursuing BUMS.

“There are significant job opportunities for BUMS graduates in Bengal. Apart from pursuing an academic career or setting up a private practice, one can apply for various Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram vacancies as and when they are listed by the central government. Competition for these positions is relatively low since only 40 students graduate with this degree in the state,” said Dr Aqueel, a 2006 pass-out from CUMCH.

Adding to this, Md Shamshuddin, a final-year student at CUMCH, said, “Unani medicine was my first choice. I believe many are turning back to Unani medicine because it has fewer side effects. In Bengal, there is only one college offering the BUMS course, and unfortunately, job opportunities remain limited.”

With preparations underway to celebrate World Unani Day on February 11, the governing body, teachers, staff, and students of CUMCH can only hope that the present government finally heeds their long-standing demand for a takeover—one that would not only enhance its existing infrastructure but also give a much-needed boost to the Unani medical fraternity in West Bengal.

When eNewsroom contacted Trinamool Congress Member of Parliament Sudip Bandhopadhyay, he mentioned that he had raised the issue inside the parliament.

“With the state government, I am looking at the salary part, which must be updated.”

But added that it will take time, “The government intimated, they have it in their mind. But not immediately. It will be looked into and I will try wholeheartedly.”