Did not return to service despite being given multiple opportunities; Health Department dismisses 51 doctors

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government has ordered the dismissal of 51 doctors under the Directorate of Medical Education for being absent from service without authorisation for a prolonged period. The action was taken against those doctors who showed no interest in returning to service despite being given multiple opportunities. The government had earlier given stern instructions to the Directorate to identify those employees who remained absent without authorisation and take strict action against them.

Health Minister Veena George stated that the government was compelled to act, as prolonged unauthorised absence of doctors disrupts the functioning of the department. She added that retaining such employees would deprive deserving candidates, who are willing to serve, of valuable opportunities.