Health Minister refutes claims, says, ‘Postings are made based on, where a doctor’s specialisation and skill set are needed the most’
Srinagar, July 18: Senior medical officers in the Health and Medical Education Department have raised concerns over recent transfers, alleging that ‘juniors were posted to key administrative positions in violation of established seniority norms’.
They have alleged that the ‘recent transfers have favoured junior medical officers, overlooking more experienced and senior colleagues’.
The move, they claim, ‘violates established norms of seniority and merit within the public service system’.
“Seniority—a fundamental principle in public service—has been disregarded,” said a senior medical officer, speaking on condition of anonymity.
He added that “doctors ranked much lower on the seniority list have been given significant administrative roles, while seniors with better records and more experience have been sidelined”.
In response to these allegations, Minister for Health and Medical Education Department Sakina Itoo, while exclusively speaking to news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS), dismissed the claims of ‘favoritism’.
“Doctors with more experience and better expertise in patient care have been given appropriate postings. Postings are made based on where a doctor’s specialisation and skill set are needed the most,” minister said.
She further said, “If any doctor has a grievance, they are free to submit a representation. The department will review each case and take appropriate action. If someone wants to approach the court, they are at liberty to do so.”
The minister further added, “All doctors and officials are equal for us. We do not favour anyone, nor do we have any relatives to benefit. Proposals are considered only after a proper assessment of the need. If a doctor has only seniority, but lacks performance or work contribution, how can we assign them a post where patient care is the priority? (KINS)
