Bhubaneswar: Taking a stern stance against prolonged absenteeism among government doctors, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday directed strict disciplinary action against medical professionals who have remained absent from duty and neglected patient care.

According to official sources, as many as 128 medical officers and dental surgeons posted across various government hospitals in the state have been absent for more than five years. Notices had earlier been issued through newspaper advertisements seeking information about their status, but many failed to respond.

Expressing serious concern, the Chief Minister instructed the Health and Family Welfare Department to initiate disciplinary proceedings against the erring officials for their unauthorised absence.

Former Medical Officer's service terminated

In a separate action, Dr Bichakshana Panigrahi, former Medical Officer of the Kandhamal Police Hospital, has been dismissed from government service. She had reportedly remained absent without authorisation since 2012. Despite repeated notices from the department asking her to explain her absence and resume duties, she did not comply.

The state government terminated her services, citing continued negligence and lack of commitment to patient care.

Highlighting the government’s focus on strengthening healthcare, Majhi said several initiatives are underway, including the opening of new hospitals, modernisation of existing facilities, and establishment of new medical colleges to boost medical education and services in the state.

However, he expressed concern despite being appointed, some doctors fail to join duty or remain absent for extended periods. “Such negligence will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” the Chief Minister stated.