Kolkata: A major controversy has erupted after 48 doctors from Prafulla Chandra Sen Government Medical College and Hospital were requisitioned for election duty as presiding officers, raising serious concerns over disruption of healthcare services.
Massive Staff Requisition Triggers Concern in Healthcare Sector
The hospital, which serves a large population across Hooghly and East Burdwan districts, has a total of 111 faculty members. Of these, 48 doctors—including several senior faculty—were assigned election duties by the Election Commission. Additionally, 14 non-medical staff members were also drafted.
Doctors and administrators warned that such large-scale deployment could severely impact patient care, emergency services, and medical education.
Doctors Call Move ‘Unprecedented’
Medical professionals expressed shock at the decision, calling it highly unusual.
“This is the first time in my 25-year career that I have been assigned poll duty. If 48 doctors are absent, patient care will be crippled,” said a senior faculty member.
Another doctor highlighted the scale of the issue, stating that in their department alone, 4 out of 8 faculty members were selected—potentially halving operational capacity.
Hospital Administration Seeks Immediate Exemption
Following the backlash, hospital authorities held discussions with Principal Rama Prasad Roy and submitted applications seeking exemption from poll duty.
The principal confirmed that he had spoken to the district magistrate—who also acts as the district election officer—and termed the situation a “communication gap.” He added that assurances had been received that the doctors would likely be exempted.
Election Commission Clarifies Position
An Election Commission official stated that the list of doctors was provided by the state health department, which led to their inclusion in election duty.
West Bengal Chief Electoral Officer Manoj Aggarwal clarified that district election officers have the authority to grant exemptions, especially in cases involving essential services like healthcare.
Similar Cases Reported Across Hospitals
The issue is not isolated. At Medical College Hospital Kolkata, requisition notices were issued for 22 clerical staff members.
Meanwhile, at College of Medicine and Sagar Dutta Hospital, three clerical staff members were also assigned election duty. Officials there expressed surprise, noting that such orders for doctors are extremely rare.
Healthcare vs Election Duty Debate Rekindled
The incident has reignited debate over whether essential healthcare workers should be deployed for election duties, especially in large numbers.
Medical experts argue that doctors provide critical emergency services and their absence—even temporarily—can directly affect patient outcomes.
Conclusion
While authorities have indicated that exemptions may be granted, the incident highlights gaps in coordination between departments and raises larger questions about balancing electoral responsibilities with essential public health services.
