India, July 20 -- An Indian-origin doctor was charged with distributing opioids without a legitimate medical purpose to his patients in exchange for sexual favours, US officials said.

The doctor was identified as 51-year-old Ritesh Kalra.

Kalra made his initial appearance yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Andre M. Espinosa in Newark federal court and was released on home incarceration and an unsecured $100,000 bond.

He is also prohibited from practising medicine and prescribing medication and will be required to shut down his medical practice while the case is pending.

"Physicians hold a position of profound responsibility-but as alleged, Dr. Kalra used that position to fuel addiction, exploit vulnerable patients for sex, and def...