Doc fights for rural patients, on hungerstrike

He believes it is a ploy to get him out of the way. Jana said his hungerstrike will continue till Pandua rural hospital authorities book errant doctors whom he has accused of neglecting duty and other malpractice.

Jana noted instances of corruption at health centres. “Medicines meant for poor patients were sold outside. None of the doctors attended duty properly. A nexus of touts rule rural hospitals and medical centres. Instead of taking action, higher authorities have transferred me. These doctors get away because they are supported by the CPI(M),” he said.

He added, “According to rules, doctors at these centres should be on duty from 9 am to 5 pm. Besides, they should reside within a radius of three kilometers. I found several of them regularly absent from the centres. Some attended duty for just one hour and none lived within three km. Therefore, I issued show-cause notices to them and stopped their pay. But they were close to the CPI(M) and nothing happened.”

The state health services bosses, however, said the doctor himself was involved in financial irregularities and that a complaint had been recently lodged with the police. Director, Health Services, Sanchita Bakshi said, “His behaviour does not befit that of a doctor. We are contemplating departmental action against him.” CMOH of Hooghly Akhil Mondol said, “I don’t know why he is creating a fuss. He is not under me any longer and has been promoted to Assistant CMOH, Burdwan. He should join his duties.”