Kurukshetra CMO takes on minister, faces action

Nitish Sharma

Tribune News Service

Kurukshetra, January 29

The Civil Surgeon of Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Hospital, Vandana Bhatia, today refuted allegations of misconduct levelled by Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Krishan Bedi saying she had evidence to prove her innocence.

Bedi is learnt to have written to state Health Minister Anil Vij against Bhatia claiming the Civil Surgeon refused to take his calls and later misbehaved with him during their recent conversation over the phone. Acting on Bedi’s complaint, Vij on Wednesday recommended Bhatia’s suspension to the Chief Minister. He also recommended a high-level inquiry besides her transfer. The Civil Surgeon said: “The allegations levelled by the minister are baseless and I have evidence to prove it.” “I have received a letter from the health department seeking a reply.

I have been accused of misconduct and not taking minister’s phone calls. But both allegations are wrong. Had I made any mistake, the minister should have sought an explanation through the department instead of complaining to the Health Minister and going to the media,” she said.

“I have been in service for 30 years and a Chief Medical Officer for the past five years. I know the protocol while communicating with higher-ranking officials or ministers.”

“I have evidence to prove my innocence, and may present it before the relevant authorities, if required. I hope to get justice.” Sources said Bhatia had the audio recording of the conversation.

Bedi, while talking to The Tribune, denied making a complaint in writing against the CMO to the Health Minister. “I had only expressed my grievance to the Health Minister. It is up to the minister and the government to act on it.”