In a significant development, the Joint Platform of Doctors has demanded the removal of the state’s Health Secretary, alleging corruption and administrative failure at R.G. Kar Medical College. The doctors have submitted a detailed email to the Chief Minister, outlining several issues and supporting their claims with evidence. This comes after recent meetings between junior doctors, the Chief Secretary, and the Home Secretary, during which the Chief Minister reportedly stated that the Health Secretary’s removal was not feasible at the moment. However, the issue has escalated further with doctors continuing to push for action.
Health Secretary’s Alleged Involvement in Corruption
The doctors’ platform has made it clear that their demand is based on severe corruption allegations at R.G. Kar Medical College, particularly involving a group known as “Team Sandeep Ghosh.” According to the email, the Health Secretary was informed about these corrupt practices back in July 2023. Despite the knowledge of these wrongdoings, the Health Secretary allegedly used his influence to reinstate Sandeep Ghosh within just two days of his transfer.
Additionally, the doctors have pointed to irregularities within the Directorate of Medical Education (DME). They claim that there was no score sheet or selection criteria for a key appointment, where a candidate was unfairly favored. The Health Secretary’s signature appears on the selection sheet, further raising questions about his role in this malpractice.
Additional Allegations
The doctors have submitted official documents and evidence to support their allegations, citing further issues related to corruption and mismanagement at R.G. Kar Medical College. They assert that these irregularities are directly impacting the quality of education and healthcare at the institution, and if left unaddressed, will continue to harm public health.
The email to the Chief Minister also includes a 10-point charter of demands aimed at improving medical education and ensuring transparency in healthcare administration. The junior doctors have expressed their intention to attend a meeting tomorrow, where these demands will be further discussed.
The Road Ahead
Despite the ongoing tension, the Chief Minister has made it clear that the Health Secretary’s removal is not immediately on the table. However, the doctors remain firm in their position. According to the Joint Platform of Doctors, the continuation of corrupt practices under the current leadership will only worsen the situation at R.G. Kar Medical College and beyond.
As the situation develops, it is becoming increasingly clear that healthcare transparency and the role of the Health Secretary will remain key issues. The doctors have called for a thorough investigation into the Secretary’s involvement in these matters and insist that reforms are needed to restore public trust in the state’s medical institutions.