Prayagraj: Taking a strict stand against allegations of private practice by government doctors, the Prayagraj district administration has warned of stringent action, including the registration of FIRs, against violators.-The decision was taken at a high‑level meeting chaired by district magistrate Manish Kumar Verma on Friday. The DM made it clear that any govt doctor found practicing privately while in service would face strict legal action, as such activity violates service rules.The administration also issued a stern warning to private hospitals and nursing homes. Officials said if any govt doctor is found practicing in a private medical establishment, the registration of the hospital concerned, or nursing home could also be cancelled.The DM has directed the chief medical officer, the principal of Motilal Nehru Medical College, and chief medical superintendents of govt hospitals to prepare and submit lists of doctors allegedly involved in private practice.“Govt service and private practice cannot continue together. Any doctor wishing to engage in private practice must first resign from govt service,” the DM said.He said surprise inspection drives are expected to begin soon to monitor compliance.Additional district magistrates and additional city magistrates have also been instructed to conduct surprise checks, while the Local Intelligence Unit (LIU) has been asked to gather information on such cases.Following the district-level meeting, principal of Motilal Nehru Medical College, Prof VK Pandey, held a separate meeting with department heads and issued a strong message to faculty members.He reportedly told doctors to either withdraw completely from private practice or resign from government service and dedicate themselves fully to duties at Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital.He asked doctors, who earlier submitted affidavits promising not to engage in private practice, to provide written clarification confirming they had completely withdrawn from such activities.Prof Pandey emphasized that healthcare services at Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital are highly challenging and require the presence of experienced senior doctors. He also warned that if any doctor is caught during surprise inspections by the district administration, they would be personally responsible for the consequences.Chief development officer Harshika Singh said locals can report complaints regarding private practice by govt doctors on the official CUG number 9454464532.
