Doctors Unite Against Health Minister at GMC: Demand Apology and Protective Measures
Panaji : Tension prevailed at Goa Medical College (GMC) since this morning, as members of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), department heads, senior consultants, postgraduate students, and intern doctors came together to protest against the conduct of Health Minister Vishwajit Rane.
Through this protest, the doctors raised three major demands:
1. The Health Minister must issue a public apology.
2. VIP culture should be eradicated from medical institutions.
3. Strict legal action should be taken against those who record videos in sensitive zones involving doctor-patient interactions.
The doctors stated that the current situation has caused severe mental stress, making it difficult to provide healthcare services under pressure. Some senior doctors also warned that if the government fails to ensure their safety, they may be compelled to stop medical services.
Health Minister Issues Apology and Clarification
In the wake of the GMC controversy, Health Minister Vishwajit Rane issued a public apology to the medical community, including Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar. He admitted that the harsh words used during a media interaction last night were said in the heat of the moment and were not intended to insult medical professionals.
“Doctors hold a sacred and honorable position in society. It is through their tireless service that patients recover and lives are saved. I have the utmost respect for their contributions,” Rane added.
Medical Services at GMC Are Normal: Dr. Ayush Sharma
Dr. Ayush Sharma, President of the Goa Association of Resident Doctors (GARD), informed the media that all medical services at GMC are running smoothly and that patient care has not been disrupted.
A GARD delegation met with GMC Dean Dr. Shibani Naik to discuss the current situation. Dr. Sharma confirmed that doctors have not taken any decision to suspend services and assured that routine work will continue uninterrupted.
“Patient care is our highest priority. Treatments are ongoing in all departments, and no patient will be neglected,” said Dr. Sharma.
He further mentioned that discussions are underway between the administration and resident doctors regarding some internal concerns, but emphasized that this will not affect patient care in any way.
