Bhubaneswar: In a strong signal of the Odisha government’s zero-tolerance stance against corruption, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday ordered the dismissal of a senior medical officer posted at the District Headquarters Hospital in Bhadrak, following his conviction in a graft case.
According to an official statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), the doctor—who previously served at the Madhuban Community Health Centre in Jajpur district—was arrested and prosecuted by the State Vigilance Department over bribery charges.
Details of the Case
The Special Judge, Vigilance, Cuttack, had on January 16, 2024, found the doctor guilty of accepting a bribe from a contractual health worker. The bribe was allegedly taken in exchange for not initiating disciplinary action against the worker for being absent during Mass Drug Administration (MDA) supervision conducted by the state medical team.
The court sentenced the doctor to:
- Two years of rigorous imprisonment
- A fine of ₹10,000
Administrative Action
In line with the court’s conviction, the Vigilance Department recommended the doctor’s dismissal from service. Acting swiftly on this recommendation, CM Mohan Charan Majhi directed that the doctor be removed from government service.
The doctor had earlier faced suspension and other departmental punishments during the course of the investigation.
CMO’s Statement and Policy Outlook
The CMO emphasized that the action reflects the Chief Minister’s firm resolve to root out corruption, especially among public servants. The government has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability, particularly within the healthcare sector, where public trust is paramount.
Broader Crackdown on Corruption
This dismissal follows a series of anti-corruption measures by the new state government. The Vigilance Department has been intensifying action against officials across ranks, especially in departments like health, education, and public works, which directly impact public welfare.
