Senior doctors boycott OPD services as Rajasthan-wide agitation warning intensifies over SOG action in alleged RGHS scam
Healthcare services at SK Hospital continue to face disruption as protests by doctors entered the third consecutive day following the arrest of a doctor and a private laboratory operator in connection with an alleged multi-crore fraud under the Rajasthan Government Health Scheme (RGHS).
The arrests were made by the Special Operations Group (SOG), which is investigating allegations that fake prescriptions and diagnostic reports were created to fraudulently claim reimbursements from the state government.
OPD Services Affected, Emergency Care Continues
As part of the ongoing agitation, senior doctors at the hospital have been boycotting outpatient department (OPD) services for the second consecutive day. The protest has significantly affected routine patient care and increased pressure on the remaining medical staff.
Despite the boycott, hospital authorities stated that indoor treatment services and emergency operations are continuing. Resident doctors and medical interns have been deployed to manage OPD responsibilities and attend to patients in an attempt to maintain essential healthcare services.
However, officials acknowledged that the reduced availability of senior doctors has placed the hospital system under considerable strain.
Medical Associations Extend Support
The protest has received support from several medical organisations and healthcare bodies across Rajasthan, including the Indian Medical Association, Private Hospitals Association, ARISDA, RMCT, and Upchar groups.
Doctors participating in the protest alleged that the arrested medical professionals were treated unfairly despite cooperating with investigators.
Speaking during the sit-in protest, Dr. Kavita Chaudhary claimed that the accused doctor had been cooperating with authorities but was “treated like a criminal” during the arrest process.
She further stated that doctors who served society during the COVID-19 pandemic deserve dignity and respect, adding that the protest would continue until both the doctor and the lab operator are released.
Doctors Warn of Statewide Boycott
Dr. Mahendra Budania warned that the agitation could soon spread beyond Sikar, with medical professionals from across Rajasthan preparing to join the movement.
According to him, taking penal action against doctors over alleged irregularities linked to government healthcare schemes is “unjust and unconstitutional.”
He further cautioned that if the arrested individuals are not released, doctors may launch a statewide boycott of medical services involving both government and private healthcare practitioners.
Demand for Government Talks
The protesting doctors have demanded immediate dialogue with government representatives and a clear resolution of their concerns.
Meanwhile, the investigation into the alleged RGHS reimbursement fraud continues, with the SOG probing the extent of the suspected financial irregularities and the possible involvement of additional individuals.
