26/02/2026
Supreme Court Issues Contempt Notice Over Non-Implementation of NCAHP Act, 2021
In a significant development impacting the future of Allied and Healthcare Professionals across India, the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India has issued a Contempt Notice to the Union Government and all States/Union Territories over the continued non-implementation of the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) Act, 2021.
A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta passed this order while hearing a contempt plea filed by the Joint Forum of Medical Technologists of India (JFMTI).
Key Highlights:
The NCAHP Act was passed in March 2021 and came into force on May 25, 2021, with the objective of regulating and empowering Allied and Healthcare Professionals.
Despite clear provisions, no effective implementation has taken place even after nearly five years.
In a related PIL, the Supreme Court had already directed the Union and States in August 2024 to ensure time-bound implementation by October 12, 2024 and make the Commission functional.
However, as of 2026, even the composition of the National Commission remains incomplete, reflecting serious delays.
The petition also highlighted that State Councils were required to be constituted within six months, but the timeline was repeatedly extended by the Central Government.
Taking serious note, the Hon’ble Court has now issued Contempt Notice, though personal appearance of officials is exempted at this stage.
Why This Matters for Allied Healthcare Professionals:
The NCAHP Act, 2021 is a historic legislation designed to:
Provide legal recognition and regulation
Ensure professional standards and accountability
Protect professional dignity and career growth
Strengthen the healthcare delivery system
Delay in its implementation continues to affect lakhs of Allied Healthcare Professionals, including:
• Diagnostic Radiographers & Technologists
• Medical Laboratory Technologists
• Operation Theatre Technologists
• Physiotherapists
• Dialysis Technologists
• And many more