Goa Doctors Call Off Strike After CM Intervention and Health Minister’s Apology

Doctors at Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC) have called off a planned strike after a heated controversy involving Health Minister Vishwajit Rane and the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar prompted intervention by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant. The issue began with a public reprimand and an on-the-spot suspension order, sparking widespread protest across the state’s medical fraternity.

The Flashpoint

On June 7, Health Minister Rane arrived at GMC following a complaint that CMO Dr. Kuttikar had misbehaved and refused to treat a patient. Without an inquiry, the minister ordered his suspension in the casualty ward, alleging negligence, especially since it occurred on a public holiday.

The complaint stemmed from a patient's relative requesting a non-urgent vitamin B12 injection. Dr. Kuttikar had directed the case to the Outpatient Department (OPD), following standard medical protocol. He later explained to ANI that such injections are not administered in the casualty department unless it is an emergency.

This confrontation, caught on video and widely shared on social media, led to swift backlash from doctors, who condemned the incident as political overreach and professional disrespect.

Widespread Outrage and Demands

Medical students, faculty, and staff at GMC began protesting on June 10, demanding a public apology from the health minister. They called his earlier apology on social media a “studio apology” and insisted that he return to the casualty ward and apologize where the incident occurred.

Dr. Kuttikar stated, “Like the video of my humiliation went viral, the same should happen with the apology. I want every person to know about it.”

Doctors also called for a ban on unauthorized video recordings within hospital premises and an end to VIP interference in clinical work. An FIR is expected to be filed against the person who shot the viral video.

Official Response

GMC Dean Dr. S.M. Bandekar clarified that no formal suspension order had been issued, and no disciplinary proceedings were initiated against Dr. Kuttikar. He expressed support for the doctors’ concerns and confirmed that their demands had been communicated to the health ministry. He supported the demand to ban videography in hospital premises. Officials also added they will identify the person behind the viral video and formally register an FIR against him.

On June 8, CM Pramod Sawant stepped in, overruling the suspension order and affirming that Dr. Kuttikar would not be penalized. The chief minister also held a meeting with representatives of the protesting doctors.

Health Minister's Apology

Following intense public and internal pressure, Health Minister Rane issued an apology. He acknowledged that “emotions overtook expression” and admitted that his tone and actions were inappropriate. He expressed regret and assured that such behavior would not be repeated.

“I want to categorically state that I have great respect for the medical community. My words and tone were not appropriate. I apologize to Dr. Kuttikar and to the entire medical fraternity,” the minister said.

Strike Called Off

After meeting with the Chief Minister and receiving assurances regarding the minister’s apology and the non-enforcement of the suspension, the agitating doctors decided to withdraw the strike.

The Goa Association of Resident Doctors (GARD) confirmed that normal services would resume, but emphasized the need for systemic safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future. They reiterated their demand for clearer policies regarding video recordings in hospitals and insulation of healthcare professionals from political pressure.

Looking Ahead

While the immediate crisis has been defused, the episode has spotlighted deeper tensions between medical professionals and political authority in India’s healthcare system.

(Input From Various Sources)

(Rehash/Pooja Bansal/MSM)