Vineela Kondapalli, the popular dietician on social media among Telugu-speaking people, is not a doctor by education.
It was revealed that she received an honorary doctorate from a university and began using the 'Dr' prefix in her name. This has now sparked controversy, with a section of society calling it manipulation and deception.
The key question is- is it legally and ethically right to use the 'Dr' prefix when it comes from an honorary doctorate? Can it be used for professional and business purposes?
Legal experts point out that this is a gray area and subject to interpretation under specific laws concerning misrepresentation and professional conduct.
Vineela has defended herself by stating that she does not prescribe medicines but only offers dietary advice to help people stay healthy.
She has claimed an 80% success rate with her methods. If that is true, she is indirectly admitting that 20% of her clients did not benefit.
In case someone’s health deteriorates due to her diet recommendations, can't she be held legally accountable? Wouldn't she face legal consequences? Can she handle being not a medical doctor? These are questions being raised by medical professionals.
It's also true that individuals who rise to fame on social media often attract envy and criticism.
Medical doctors, who study for nearly a decade to earn their degrees, may feel frustrated watching someone without a formal medical qualification gain popularity and financial success in the same field.
There is no confirmed news but a rumor indicates that she had earned a sum of Rs 2 crore month in dietician avatar!
On the other hand, Vineela seems to be struggling to manage the situation gracefully. She has been reacting emotionally and aggressively in interviews, which is damaging her credibility and may suggest a lack of confidence or guilt.
While the people who benefited from her diet plans may continue to support her, those who didn’t see results — along with her competitors — might find satisfaction in this campaign against her.
