Doctors allege arbitrary postings; Health Minister promises review if irregularities found
Srinagar: A recent reshuffle of 33 doctors in the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) under the Jammu & Kashmir Health and Medical Education Department has triggered widespread controversy, with senior doctors accusing the administration of ignoring seniority norms and favoring select individuals in key appointments.
The contentious transfers were outlined in Government Order No. 429-JK (HME) of 2025, dated June 28, 2025, and have since raised serious concerns over their impact on administrative order and healthcare delivery in government hospitals across Kashmir.
Junior Doctors Given Senior Roles
As reported by Greater Kashmir, the reshuffle saw medical officers from the 2012 batch being elevated to top administrative roles, such as In-Charge Deputy Director Health Services and Deputy Medical Superintendent of Srinagar’s Super Speciality Hospital. Meanwhile, senior doctors from the 2002–2005 batches allege they were unjustly bypassed, sparking accusations of nepotism and favoritism.
“This list is bound to create administrative anarchy. Senior doctors will now have to report to those who are much junior and far less experienced,” remarked a disgruntled doctor.
Violation of Seniority and Government Directives
Critics argue that the reshuffle violates the DHSK’s official seniority list, which has traditionally guided administrative promotions. Furthermore, the reshuffle contradicts a recent government order aimed at withdrawing DHSK doctors from GMC-associated hospitals to strengthen peripheral healthcare services.
Controversial postings include positions such as:
- Deputy Medical Superintendent of Children’s Hospital
- Deputations to the Jammu and Kashmir Medical Supplies Corporation Limited (JKMSCL)
- BMOs, CMOs, and MS-level roles without adherence to rules
Minister Promises Action if Irregularities Proven
Responding to the uproar, Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo acknowledged the complaints and said,
“I’ve asked concerned doctors to submit a formal representation. We will examine the issue, and if there is injustice, it will be rectified.”
She added that seniority alone isn’t the sole criterion for appointments.
“If a doctor lacks performance or work contribution, we cannot assign them to crucial posts where patient care is a priority,” she told KINS.
Mounting Pressure on Government for Transparency
The issue has gained momentum on social media, with doctors and citizens alike demanding transparency, accountability, and fairness in appointments. Many within the medical community fear that such arbitrary reshuffles may undermine morale, disrupt hospital functioning, and impact healthcare delivery, especially in rural and peripheral regions.
As the controversy unfolds, all eyes are on the Health Department’s next steps—whether it stands by the reshuffle or initiates course correction amid mounting public pressure.
