The Uttarakhand High Court has taken a significant step in a case involving serious allegations against the chairman of the Uttarakhand Medical Council. On Friday, the court directed the petitioner to formally submit a detailed representation along with all supporting evidence within a strict deadline of six weeks.
Court's Directives and Allegations Under Scrutiny
A division bench comprising Chief Justice G Narendar and Justice Subhash Upadhyay was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that has brought forth multiple accusations. The petition, filed by ayurvedic practitioner and social worker Akhilesh Kumar Bhatnagar, alleges that the current chairman, Janardhan Nautiyal, has been holding the post unlawfully.
The core allegation states that Nautiyal's official tenure expired long ago, yet he continues to occupy the chairman's position. The PIL claims he achieved this by forging documents and did not secure any necessary approval from the state government for his continued stay in the role.
Specific Accusations of Misconduct and Favoritism
Beyond the tenure issue, the petition levels more serious charges of misuse of authority. It is alleged that Nautiyal exploited his powerful position for personal gain and to benefit his close associates.
One specific instance mentioned involves his wife. The petitioner claims that Nautiyal manipulated his influence to arrange for his wife to receive a Panchakarma diploma from his own institute, raising clear questions of conflict of interest and ethical violations.
Another accusation points to Nautiyal's academic pursuits. The petition submits that he availed medical leave to complete a three-year Doctor of Medicine (MD) course. However, he reportedly finished this rigorous program in just two and a half years, allegedly leveraging political influence to expedite the process.
Legal Proceedings and Government's Role
The High Court has issued clear instructions following the submission of the evidence. It has directed the Uttarakhand state government to examine the representation and take a decision on the matter strictly in accordance with the law. Furthermore, the court has mandated that legal proceedings be initiated based on the findings.
To ensure accountability and continuous monitoring, the court has also sought a progress report from the government on the actions taken in this case. This move is seen as crucial to prevent the matter from being sidelined or delayed.
The petitioner, Akhilesh Kumar Bhatnagar, had originally requested a thorough investigation into all the allegations and a decisive action by the state government on his earlier representation. The court's latest order formally sets this legal process in motion.
