Goa CMO Demands Public Apology from Health Minister Amid Controversy
Call for Immediate Public Apology
Rudresh Kuttikar, the Chief Medical Officer of Goa Medical College and Hospital, has rejected the apology made by State Health Minister Vishwajit Rane on Monday. Kuttikar insists that Rane must publicly apologize 'immediately' in the same casualty department where he was criticized during a surprise inspection. The Goa Association of Resident Doctors (GARD) has warned of a potential strike if the minister does not comply with their demand.
Kuttikar stated, 'We demand that he (Rane) apologize publicly, and the minister should come to the casualty department and apologize. If our demand is not met, we may go on strike.' He explained that the incident on June 7 involved a relative requesting a B12 injection, which was not an emergency situation, and they advised the individual to visit the outpatient department instead.
The CMO described the minister's apology as a 'studio apology' and emphasized that the apology video should gain as much attention as the video of his humiliation did. He expressed, 'I want everyone to know about Rane’s apology.'
#WATCH | Bambolim, Goa: Rudresh Kuttikar, CMO of Goa Medical College and Hospital, who was reprimanded by state health minister Vishwajit Rane, says, "We demand that he (Rane) should apologise publicly, the minister should come to the casualty (department) and apologise. If our… pic.twitter.com/VyCP8v1cOf
— Media Channel (@MediaChannel) June 9, 2025
Minister's Apology and Response
On the other hand, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane did issue an apology to the Chief Medical Officer on Monday, expressing regret over how he handled the situation. He took to social media to convey his feelings, stating that the matter has been unnecessarily politicized, with opposition parties calling for his resignation.
In his post on X, Rane said, 'During the broadcast with Media Channel last night, I openly extended my heartfelt apology to Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar for the harsh words spoken by me during my visit to GMC. In the heat of the moment, my emotions overtook my expression, and I deeply regret the manner in which I addressed the situation. It was never my intention to undermine or disrespect the dignity of any medical professional.'
He further acknowledged the vital role of doctors in society, stating, 'Doctors hold a sacred and noble position in our society. They work tirelessly to heal, to comfort, and to save lives. I hold the highest respect for their contribution to our state. While I may have erred in my communication, my intent was always to ensure that no patient is denied timely care and that our public health system remains responsive and compassionate.'
During the broadcast with Media Channel last night, I openly extended my heartfelt apology to Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar for the harsh words spoken by me during my visit to GMC. In the heat of the moment, my emotions overtook my expression, and I deeply regret the manner in which I…
— Vishwajit Rane (@visrane) June 9, 2025