• Source:JND
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Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant stepped in to do damage control on Sunday after the state Health Minister, Vishwajit Rane, suspended Dr. Rudresh Kurtikar, the Casualty Medical Officer (CMO) at Goa Medical College and Hospital, a development that stirred protest by the state medical fraternity.

Taking to X, CM Sawant said, "I have reviewed the issue at Goa Medical College and held discussions with the Health Minister. I want to assure the people of Goa that Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar will not be suspended."

Earlier in the day, Rane defended his decision, terming Kuttikar's behaviour as "arrogant" towards patients. He also said that he would not apologise for his action.

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What is the case?

The case pertains to Kuttikar's suspension after Rane paid a surprise visit to the casualty ward of GMCH. Rane said that he received a complaint from a senior journalist who alleged that the doctor mistreated his mother-in-law in the GMCH casualty ward.

The video of the public suspension of Dr Kuttikar by Rane went viral on social media. In the viral video, Rane could be heard berating the doctor, saying, "You are a doctor to serve the poor. I am suspending you." Upon this, he ordered the Medical Superintendent to relieve Kuttikar from his duties with immediate effect.

He lashed out at Kuttikar, saying, "You learn to control your tongue." Rane further added, "Whatever you have to say, say in front of the enquiry committee."

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He added that Kuttikar would not be reinstated under his tenure as Health Minister. The incident sparked outcry from the medical fraternity across the state. The Goa Association of Resident Doctors (GARD) condemned the incident, calling it a public humiliation, adding that the suspension was arbitrary.

The association demanded a fair enquiry, suspension revocation, public apology, and the implementation of a zero-tolerance policy against VIP bullying. GARD gave a 48-hour ultimatum to the state to fulfil their demands. The Indian Medical Association (IMA), Goa, and the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) also condemned Rane's behaviour.

After mounting pressure, Rane acknowledged that his tone could have been softer but refused to apologise.