The Allahabad High Court has issued a strong directive to the Uttar Pradesh government, urging the establishment of a comprehensive policy to prohibit private practice by doctors employed in state-run hospitals.
The court described the practice as a growing “menace,” highlighting instances where government doctors were diverting patients to private facilities for personal financial gain. Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal expressed concern over the dereliction of duties in public hospitals, stating that such behavior undermines the trust and welfare of patients relying on government healthcare services.
“It is alarming that patients are being pushed towards private nursing homes and hospitals while government-appointed doctors neglect their responsibilities in state medical colleges and hospitals, prioritizing profit over care,” remarked Justice Agarwal during the hearing.
This case originated from a petition filed by Dr. Arvind Gupta, a professor at Motilal Nehru Medical College in Prayagraj, contesting a complaint lodged against him for alleged malpractice at a private nursing home. The court raised critical questions about the legality of government doctors engaging in private practice while holding public positions.
During the proceedings, it was revealed that existing government rules from 1983 address this issue, yet enforcement appears to be inconsistent. The court has instructed the Principal Secretary of Medical Health and Education to provide a detailed affidavit on the steps taken to ensure compliance with these rules.
Additionally, the court emphasized the need for the prohibition to extend beyond doctors in medical colleges, encompassing all government healthcare professionals across the state. This includes practitioners in district hospitals and provincial medical services.
The matter will be revisited on February 10, with the court expecting updates on policy formulation and stricter enforcement measures.
