Jaipur: The Directorate of Medical and Health Services in Rajasthan has issued a list of 678 doctors who did not take up duty after their transfer or posting orders, or who have been absent for a long time and have not returned. The department has given them a last opportunity to present their side. If they do not respond within the stipulated period, their services will be terminated.
Third warning since April
The department has now warned such doctors three times since April. Even so, around 678 doctors have not yet joined duty. The department has begun the process of legal action against them.
Notice issued to all doctors
The list of 678 doctors is attached to the notice issued by the directorate. It gives each doctor's name, post, qualification, date of birth and details related to the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC). The department has made it clear that doctors who do not submit a representation within the stipulated time will face action under the Rajasthan Service Rules.
The department has also indicated strict action against doctors who completed their postgraduate (PG) degree under the in-service quota. In such cases, money will be recovered as per the terms of the bond. Action to cancel their registration with the Rajasthan Medical Council may also be taken.
Questions over hospital services
With a large number of doctors out of duty for a long time, questions are also being raised about the functioning of government hospitals. The questions are how patients' treatment was managed during these doctors' absence and who was responsible for providing medical services in their place.
Did not return despite several notices
Dr Raviprakash Sharma, Director (Public Health), Medical and Health Department, said that around 678 doctors have not joined duty even after several notices were issued. He said the process of legal action has been started against such doctors.