Himachal Pradesh Health Department Suspends Four Senior Doctors for Absenteeism and Private Practice

The Himachal Pradesh Health Department has taken a firm stance against absenteeism and unauthorized private practice by suspending four senior doctors from prominent medical institutions. This action follows repeated notices issued to the doctors, who failed to provide satisfactory explanations for their prolonged absences. Among those suspended are specialists who have not reported for duty for years, prompting the government to enforce strict disciplinary measures. The department aims to address the ongoing shortage of specialists in government hospitals while ensuring accountability and adherence to service regulations. Read on to learn more about the details of this significant action.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 5, 2025, 15:19 IST

Government Takes Action Against Absentee Doctors

Shimla: In a decisive move against prolonged absenteeism and alleged unauthorized private practice, the Health Department of Himachal Pradesh has suspended four senior doctors from leading medical institutions in the state. This decision comes after the issuance of multiple notices to the doctors, who reportedly did not provide adequate explanations for their absences.

Late Thursday evening, Health Secretary M Sudha Devi issued the suspension orders, emphasizing the government's strict approach towards breaches of service regulations, especially within the public health sector.

Doctors Reportedly Absent for Extended Periods
Among those suspended is Dr. Vikas Kumar, an Assistant Professor in the Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS) department at AIMM, Chamiyana, who has been absent without approved leave since July 31, 2022.

Additionally, Dr. Kunal Mahajan, an Assistant Professor in Cardiology, has not reported for duty since October 1, 2021. Officials noted that he has been absent for over four years and did not respond to departmental communications. His employment has been terminated retroactively to the date of his last attendance, and he is barred from claiming reinstatement.

Unauthorized Positions and Absences

The Health Department also suspended Dr. Tushar Patial, an Assistant Professor in Plastic Surgery, who has been absent since October 31, 2024, without providing a satisfactory explanation despite numerous reminders.

In another instance, Dr. Naveen Kumar, a pediatric specialist at IGMC-Shimla, is accused of taking up a role as Associate Professor at AIIMS without obtaining a no-objection certificate (NOC) or relieving orders from the state. His absence has surpassed three years, leading to action under CCS (CCA) Rule 19 for serious misconduct and violation of service norms.

Disciplinary Measures Enforced

Sources indicate that the department's actions followed unsatisfactory responses to notices requesting explanations. Allegations of private practice and unauthorized employment with other institutions were classified as significant disciplinary infractions.

The Health Department reiterated its commitment to addressing the shortage of specialists in government hospitals, stating that unauthorized absences and dual practices will not be tolerated. They also mentioned that additional oversight measures are being implemented to enhance accountability within the medical workforce.