Indian doctor accused of crimes becomes president of World Medical Association

Ketan Desai, the former president of the Medical Council of India, walks after his hearing outside a courthouse in Lucknow, India, June 27, 2015. REUTERS/Pawan Kumar/Files

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - The World Medical Association (WMA), the top medical-ethics body, on Friday installed an Indian doctor facing corruption charges as its president, despite controversy surrounding his appointment while legal cases are pending.

A statement released by the WMA said Dr. Ketan Desai delivered his inaugural speech as president on Friday at the association's annual assembly in Taiwan. He will serve in the position for 2016/17.