Doctors write to CM over vacant medical posts, seek urgent action
The Haryana Civil Medical Services Association (HCMSA), representing government doctors, has written to Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini over 19 vacant posts of Principal Medical Officers (PMOs) and Civil Surgeons across the state.
In a letter dated February 5, the doctors’ union highlighted that while 13 Senior Medical Officers were promoted to Civil Surgeons two months ago, they have yet to receive posting orders.
"Such delay is unprecedented and unfortunate. Have you ever seen a post of Deputy Commissioner lying vacant?" questioned Dr Rajesh Khyalia, president of HCMSA.
He further pointed out that three directors have been given dual or additional charge of civil surgeons, a move the association strongly opposes. "We have already raised this issue at all levels. We even met the Additional Chief Secretary (Health) and the Minister, who assured us that the dual charge orders would be withdrawn," he added.
In its letter to the CM, HCMSA argued that the practice of dual charge was “unfair and non-transparent” and was sending a negative message within the medical fraternity. "The delay in posting orders for newly promoted Civil Surgeons is causing dissatisfaction and resentment among members, lowering the morale and motivation of the HCMS cadre," the letter stated.
The association also flagged the long-pending promotion of Medical Officers to Senior Medical Officers. "Many posts of Deputy Civil Surgeons and Senior Medical Officers remain vacant, which severely impacts the implementation of national health programmes and other key medical functions," Dr Khyalia said.
Additionally, the doctors’ union is awaiting the issuance of a notification on Assured Career Progression for HCMS doctors, which, according to the association, was promised to them in August 2024.
