New Delhi, June 23 :
The Supreme Court on Monday declined to interfere with an order of the Allahabad High Court directing a high-level inquiry into allegations that government doctors were engaged in private medical practice while holding public posts, observing that the matter raises a “serious issue” requiring thorough examination.
A Bench of the apex court refused to grant relief against the High Court’s directions and allowed the inquiry to proceed, emphasizing the need to ascertain whether government-employed doctors were violating service norms by undertaking private practice alongside their official duties.
During the hearing, the Supreme Court noted that allegations involving government doctors conducting private practice concern public interest and healthcare administration, and therefore warrant a proper investigation rather than judicial interference at this stage.
The matter stems from proceedings before the Allahabad High Court, which had ordered a comprehensive probe into complaints regarding doctors allegedly engaging in private practice despite being employed in government health institutions. The High Court had sought a detailed inquiry to determine the veracity of the allegations and identify any violations of applicable rules and regulations.
Refusing to stay the inquiry, the Supreme Court observed that the investigation would help establish the facts and ensure accountability if any irregularities are found. The Court made it clear that it was not inclined to obstruct the fact-finding exercise ordered by the High Court.
The decision is being viewed as significant in the context of public healthcare governance, as concerns over unauthorized private practice by government doctors have repeatedly surfaced in various states, often raising questions about availability of medical services in public hospitals and adherence to service conditions. )
The inquiry ordered by the Allahabad High Court will now continue in accordance with law, while the Supreme Court’s refusal to intervene effectively clears the way for authorities to examine the allegations in details.(KNC)