The Health And Medical Education Department of the Jammu and Kashmir government is taking a stern stand against the Director of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK). This is in response to the alleged violation of government regulations by the Director when an under-suspension doctor was transferred from one district to another. An inquiry officer, Pankaj Gupta, Director of Medical Supplies, has been assigned to the agency by the government and has been asked to submit a report within 20 days.
The suspicions of foul play arose after the Department noticed that the name of Dr. Arshad Hussain Wani, Medical Officer was included in the proposal for transfer to the Administrative Department despite the fact that Dr Arshad had already been suspended. An order issued by Bhupinder Kumar, Secretary of the Health and Medical Education Department requested the Director of Health Services to explain why the transfer of a suspended doctor was allowed.
Dr Arshad Ahmad Wani, Medical Officer, SDH Kokernag was suspended in February this year in accordance with Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956. It was also highlighted that the Director of Health Services had illegally delegated financial powers to Chief Medical Officers (CMOs).
The government has also asked the Director of Health to immediately initiate disciplinary proceedings against the under-suspension doctor. Furthermore, it was also noted that the concerned doctor will remain attached to the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir until further notice.
The department’s actions come as part of a larger operation which saw 119 Medical Officers transferred across Jammu and Kashmir last month.
Director Health Services Kashmir oversees the health care services for the entire region. It is also responsible for providing medical professionals and resources in times of need. The organisation ensures that the public receives efficient and quality healthcare.
Dr Arshad Ahmad Wani has been suspended since February for suspected violation of government regulations. He was previously a Medical Officer at the Sub District Hospital Kokernag, Anantnag but was transferred to the NTPHC Shiendra, Poonch. However, with the Department’s new inquiry, his fate remains uncertain.
It is yet to be seen what outcome awaits both the Director of Health Services Kashmir and Dr. Arshad Hussain Wani. As the government continues to take decisive steps to ensure excellent health care services, transparency and accountability remain of utmost importance to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
