Adilabad: Senior doctors who have served at the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) Adilabad for more than a decade are still waiting for the renewal of their contractual agreements, which have been pending for nearly two months. The delay has resulted in a noticeable shortage of medical professionals at the institution.
Long-Serving Faculty Express Anxiety Over Uncertain Future
A senior faculty member, who has been training students since RIMS was established in 2008, expressed concern over the prolonged delay. He stated that despite dedicating 15 to 18 years to the institution, doctors now fear for their future as they have limited opportunities outside after such long service.
Background: A Semi-Autonomous Institution With Contractual Hiring
RIMS was founded in 2008 during the tenure of then chief minister Y. S. Rajashekhar Reddy and functions as a semi-autonomous medical college. Most faculty members were recruited under GO 99 on long-term contracts, selected through a rigorous interview process involving senior officials from the health and finance departments, along with institutional leadership.
Renewal Delays and Inconsistent Procedures Raise Concerns
Under existing rules, faculty contracts are supposed to be renewed every three to five years, depending on designation. However, senior doctors claim the renewal process has been inconsistent in recent years, leading to repeated delays. They added that during the days of undivided Andhra Pradesh, even though payments were delayed, faculty continued to serve with commitment.
Legal Intervention and Administrative Lapses Highlighted
Senior doctors pointed out that they previously approached the High Court, which directed the administration to ensure continuity of services. They also noted that after 2017, Executive Board meetings—crucial for addressing institutional issues—have not been held, preventing the resolution of key administrative and contractual concerns.
Doctors Appeal to DME Amid Fears Over New Government Order
The affected faculty recently met the Director of Medical Education (DME) in Hyderabad and submitted a memorandum seeking immediate renewal of their contracts. They alleged attempts to phase out GO 99 and introduce GO 1085, a new order that restricts contractual appointments to just one year, potentially displacing long-serving faculty members.
Concerns Over Job Security and Institutional Changes
Doctors fear that while RIMS institutions in the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh were absorbed into the government system, RIMS Adilabad retained its semi-autonomous status, making its staff vulnerable to changes. They believe introducing GO 1085 could severely impact job security and undermine the contributions of faculty who have strengthened the institution for more than a decade.
Administration Promises Deliberation and Resolution
RIMS Director Jaisingh Rathod stated that the administration is actively examining the issue and holding meetings with faculty members. He assured that a decision will be taken after discussions, offering some hope to the long-serving doctors waiting for clarity on their employment status.
