Bhubaneswar, Jun 18: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday ordered strict disciplinary action against 128 medical officers and dental surgeons who have remained absent from duty for more than five years, underscoring the government’s commitment to accountability in healthcare services, officials said.

Action Against Absentee Doctors
The Chief Minister directed the Health Department to initiate proceedings after repeated notices and even public advertisements failed to secure responses from the absentee doctors. Their prolonged absence has disrupted patient care in several hospitals across the state.

Doctor Dismissed After 14 Years
In a decisive move, Dr. Bichakshana Panigrahi, former medical officer of Kandhamal Police Hospital, has been dismissed from government service. Dr. Panigrahi had been absent without authorization since 2012, despite multiple departmental directives to explain his absence and rejoin duty. His continued disregard for patient care led to his removal.

Government’s Healthcare Priorities
CM Majhi emphasized that the state government is prioritizing healthcare by opening new hospitals, modernizing existing facilities, and expanding medical education through new colleges. However, he warned that doctors who neglect their responsibilities after appointment will face strict consequences. “Such negligence cannot be tolerated under any circumstances,” he said.

Ensuring Accountability and Trust
Officials noted that the government’s focus on healthcare modernization and expansion is aimed at ensuring accessible and quality medical services across Odisha. The disciplinary measures against absentee doctors are intended to reinforce accountability and restore public confidence in the system.
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Commitment to Patient Welfare
By holding medical professionals accountable, the government seeks to underline its commitment to patient welfare and ensure uninterrupted healthcare delivery. The crackdown is expected to serve as a deterrent against negligence and strengthen the state’s resolve to provide reliable medical services to its citizens.