Pune: An Associate Professor of Psychiatry at B.J. Medical College, Pune, is facing departmental action for allegedly engaging in private practice while being a full-time government doctor. The Commissioner of the Department of Medical Education has recommended action to the Maharashtra government following an inquiry.
Complaint and Investigation
The issue came to light after lawyer and RTI activist Rishabh Talera filed a complaint on November 12, 2024, alleging that the doctor was charging ₹2,000 per visit for private consultations. Evidence reportedly showed that he was practicing at multiple private clinics in the PCMC area and a private hospital, violating government service rules.
In response:
- Dr. Eknath Pawar, Dean of B.J. Medical College, formed a three-member internal inquiry committee on November 18, 2024.
- The committee questioned the complainant on December 18, 2024, and later submitted its findings.
- Based on the report, departmental action was recommended, and the final decision now rests with the Maharashtra government.
Ethical and Legal Concerns
Government doctors engaging in private practice raise ethical concerns, as it often leads to reduced availability and efficiency in public hospitals. The Jammu and Kashmir High Court (Azra Ismail v. Union of India & Ors., 2020) previously ruled:
“Government-employed doctors must not exploit public resources for private gain. Engaging in private practice diminishes their focus on public service and compromises patient care.”
Next Steps
Dr. Eknath Pawar confirmed that the state government has been notified, and official action is pending. If upheld, the case could set a precedent for stricter regulations on private practice by government doctors, ensuring better accountability and patient care in public hospitals.
