Delhi Health Minister Highlights Doctors Shortage, Criticizes L-G for Inaction

Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has raised concerns about a significant shortage of doctors and specialists in the city’s hospitals, citing a nearly 30% vacancy rate. Despite repeated requests to the Lieutenant Governor (L-G), Bharadwaj claims no substantial efforts have been made to address these critical vacancies. He accused the L-G’s office of delaying appointments by citing excuses such as the unavailability of the Chief Minister and the lack of a National Capital Civil Service Authority (NCCSA) meeting.

During a press conference, Bharadwaj outlined measures the Delhi government is taking to combat the spread of dengue, including directives for public announcements at metro stations, bus stations, and other transport hubs to raise awareness about dengue prevention. He emphasized the need for all government hospitals to be fully equipped to handle dengue cases and directed the Health Secretary to visit hospitals daily to ensure compliance, although he expressed uncertainty over the implementation of these orders.

Bharadwaj also highlighted the need for schools to enforce full-sleeve clothing for students as a protective measure against mosquito bites. He noted plans to increase public awareness through radio ads, campaigns, posters, and announcements in metro and public transport stations.

The Health Minister accused the L-G’s office of spreading false information and obstructing the recruitment process for medical staff in government hospitals. He criticized the L-G, appointed by the BJP-led central government, for evading responsibility during major crises in Delhi, including a recent incident at the Asha Kiran Home Shelter, where 13 residents died due to a lack of doctors and paramedical staff. Bharadwaj blamed this tragic outcome on the L-G’s failure to appoint necessary medical personnel, despite having authority over transfers and postings.

Bharadwaj also pointed out that the L-G’s office issued a misleading statement claiming that the absence of an NCCSA meeting prevented staff appointments at Asha Kiran Home. However, these appointments were made following a court order without the need for an NCCSA meeting, which he said exposed the falsehoods propagated by the L-G’s office.

The minister emphasized that many hospitals are currently managed by overburdened directors or medical superintendents due to staff shortages. He noted that multiple letters sent to the L-G’s office have gone unheeded, with responses citing reasons like the unavailability of the Chief Minister and procedural delays tied to NCCSA meetings. The NCCSA, chaired by the Delhi Chief Minister and including the Chief Secretary and Principal Secretary (Home), was formed in May to oversee service matters, including transfers and postings of Group ‘A’ officers in the Delhi government.

Source: Business Standard