Odisha Doctor Suspended for Allegedly Recommending Private Pharmacies to Patients

In a concerning incident in Jajpur, Odisha, a government doctor has been suspended for allegedly instructing patients to purchase medications from private pharmacies rather than providing them from the health centre. This action follows complaints from patients to the Health Secretary during a visit prompted by a diarrhoea outbreak in the area. The doctor, Hemanta Kumar Maharana, is now required to report to the district headquarters hospital and is restricted from leaving the station without permission. Read on to learn more about this troubling situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 19, 2025, 23:07 IST

Suspension of Doctor in Jajpur District

Jajpur: On Thursday, a government physician in Odisha faced suspension for reportedly instructing patients to procure medications from private pharmacies, according to officials.

The physician, identified as Hemanta Kumar Maharana, was stationed at the Dharmasala Community Health Centre in Jajpur district.

It was alleged that he directed patients to buy medicines from private sources rather than providing them with the medications available at the health facility.

Complaints from patients reached Health Secretary Aswathy S, who visited the health centre on Monday in response to a diarrhoea outbreak in the region.

The Health and Family Welfare Department subsequently issued the suspension order.

Maharana has been instructed to report to the district headquarters hospital and is prohibited from leaving the station without prior approval from higher authorities.