Day later, Goa CM Sawant intervenes, says GMC doctor won’t be suspended | Goa News
PANAJI: A day after public outrage over the decision of health minister Vishwajit Rane to suspend the chief medical officer (CMO) of Goa Medical College’s (GMC) casualty department, chief minister Pramod Sawant said on Sunday that the doctor would not be suspended.Rane on Saturday directed the immediate suspension of the doctor following a complaint alleging that the doctor told a patient to go to an urban health centre to receive an injection.
“I reviewed the issue at GMC and held discussions with the health minister. I want to assure the people of Goa that the doctor will not be suspended,” said Sawant.“State govt and our dedicated medical team remain fully committed to ensuring the highest standards of healthcare for every citizen. We also appreciate the tireless efforts and invaluable service of our doctors, who continue to save lives.”Immediately after facing backlash over his behaviour, Rane issued a statement but without an apology as demanded by people and doctors’ associations. “Yes, as the health minister, I did intervene, and I accept that my tone and words could have been more measured. I’m not above reflection or criticism. I take full responsibility for how I communicated, and I assure you, such an approach will not be repeated,” he said.Rane’s move on Saturday followed a complaint alleging that the doctor told a patient to go to an urban health centre to receive an injection.In a video widely shared on social media, Rane is seen telling the senior doctor to “go home” and “shut up,” and issued directions to “kick him out of here.” When the doctor tried to respond, Rane told him, “You are not authorised to speak when I am speaking” and “first learn to shut up when I am talking to you,” before telling him to “get out from here.” As the doctor tried to reason with the minister, Rane said, “When I make up my mind, I don’t want to listen to you... Don’t open your mouth when I’m talking.”
