8 Associate Professors, 41 Assistant Professors Among Faculty Removed Under AP Civil Services Rules
In a major disciplinary action aimed at tightening accountability in the public healthcare system, the Andhra Pradesh government has dismissed 51 doctors working in teaching hospitals under the Directorate of Medical Education (DME) for remaining absent from duty without authorisation for prolonged periods.
According to official sources, the dismissed faculty members include 8 Associate Professors, 41 Assistant Professors, and two tutors. Some of the doctors had allegedly remained absent from government service for as long as six to seven years.
Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav Warns Against Negligence in Medical Services
State Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav said the dismissals were carried out under the AP Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964, which allow the government to treat unauthorised absence extending beyond one year as resignation from service.
Speaking on the issue, the minister stated that the government had issued show-cause notices to the absentee faculty members and provided sufficient time for them to respond. However, after receiving no satisfactory explanation, the administration proceeded with termination.
“Negligence in medical service cannot be tolerated. Responsibility is non-negotiable,” the minister asserted.
Officials revealed that several doctors had reportedly distanced themselves from their official responsibilities to pursue private business interests, adversely affecting patient care and academic activities in government teaching hospitals.
DME Conducted Statewide Review Across Government Medical Colleges
Before finalising the dismissals, the Directorate of Medical Education collected detailed reports from government medical colleges in multiple districts, including:
- Kadapa
- Anantapur
- Ongole
- Tirupati
- Vijayawada
- Kakinada
- Visakhapatnam
- Vizianagaram
- Rajahmundry
- Eluru
- Nellore
- Markapuram
Among the cases highlighted, one Associate Professor from Andhra Medical College had allegedly remained absent since February 2020, while an Assistant Professor reportedly failed to attend duties since August 2022.
Authorities also identified two tutors who had been absent for several years, including one individual who had allegedly stayed away from duty for nearly seven years.
More Disciplinary Action Likely Against Additional Professors
The Health Minister indicated that disciplinary proceedings may soon be initiated against three more professors who have also remained absent from duty for extended durations.
At the same time, the government noted that 11 doctors who had been absent for less than a year resumed duties after receiving charge memos. However, 33 doctors — including two Associate Professors and 31 Assistant Professors — are still reportedly absent.
Officials warned that these doctors could also face dismissal if they fail to rejoin duty within the stipulated period.
Andhra Pradesh Govt Plans Fresh Faculty Recruitment Under Zero Vacancy Policy
Meanwhile, the Andhra Pradesh government is expected to begin recruitment of faculty members in government medical colleges under a proposed “zero vacancy policy” aimed at strengthening staffing and improving healthcare delivery in state-run teaching hospitals.
The move comes amid growing concerns regarding faculty shortages, patient care disruptions, and administrative discipline in government medical institutions across the state.
