In Kolkata, the medical community is raising serious concerns about recruitment processes. While many doctors have highlighted irregularities, one association has taken a stronger stance. They are demanding the immediate removal of the chairperson of the West Bengal Health Recruitment Board.
Doctors' Association Writes to Chief Minister
On Monday, the Association of Health Service Doctors' West Bengal chapter sent a formal letter to the state's chief minister. The chief minister also holds the health portfolio. The letter urgently requested the removal of the current WBHRB chairperson.
Recent Controversy Over Assistant Professor Panel
This action follows recent criticism from the broader medical community. A few days ago, the WBHRB released a panel of assistant professors for medical colleges. Several doctors' organizations quickly flagged two names on that list.
They questioned the eligibility of both candidates. Allegations surfaced that one doctor was currently under suspension. The other was reportedly under scrutiny for financial fraud.
- The first candidate is a postgraduate in pathology who was serving as a senior resident. This doctor had been suspended during the RG Kar movement.
- The second candidate is a postgraduate in biochemistry. Sources indicate an inquiry is pending against this individual for allegedly drawing dual remuneration from the government. This candidate is also the son of a West Bengal Medical Council official.
Facing this backlash, the board took swift action. They withdrew the pathology panel list specifically for SC candidates.
Allegations of Nepotism and Lack of Transparency
The Association of Health Service Doctors did not stop there. They alleged ongoing irregularities within the board. They pointed to a severe lack of transparency and apparent nepotism.
The current chairperson of the board is MLA Sudipto Roy. In their letter, the AHSD stated a powerful concern. "The sanctity of this institution, mandated to select the backbone of our state's healthcare infrastructure, is currently under severe threat," they wrote.
Other doctors' organizations echoed similar worries. They also alleged a lack of clear process in recruiting RMOs and specialist medical officers.
Call for New Leadership
Utpal Bandyopadhyay, the general secretary of AHSD West Bengal, clearly stated their demand. "We are requesting dissolution of the current WBHRB leadership and appointing a neutral, non-political academic or administrator of impeccable integrity as chairman," he said.
The doctors' association believes this change is crucial. They argue it is necessary to restore faith in the recruitment system and ensure the selection of qualified medical teachers for West Bengal.
