Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Jun 9: Tensions flared at Goa Medical College (GMC) on Monday after Chief Medical Officer Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar demanded a public apology from Health Minister Vishwajit Rane for allegedly humiliating him in the casualty ward on June 7.
Addressing a press conference, Dr. Kuttikar declared that unless the minister offers a public apology — at the same location where the incident occurred — within 24 hours, hospital services would be shut down, except for emergency care.
“I was humiliated by the Minister in the casualty on June 7. As my humiliation went viral, his apology must also be public and viral, and it must happen in the same place,” Dr. Kuttikar said. “If not, we will shut down all services except emergencies.”
The demand has drawn widespread support from the medical community, including the Goa Association of Resident Doctors (GARD), faculty members, interns, students, and national bodies like the Indian Medical Association (IMA).
The controversy began when Minister Rane confronted Dr. Kuttikar over a non-emergency Vitamin B12 injection administered during his surprise visit to the GMC casualty. Rane publicly criticized the doctor and announced suspension proceedings, triggering strong backlash.
Although the Minister later apologized during a televised interview and reiterated his regret on X (formerly Twitter), medical staff have rejected what they called a “studio apology.” They insist the Minister must return to the casualty ward and apologize on camera before staff and patients.
Protests have already disrupted routine operations at GMC. Doctors warned that if their demands are not met, even emergency services may be suspended.
“We are here for patients, not against them,” Dr. Kuttikar emphasized. “Even on the day of the incident, I remained on duty until 2.30 pm despite being asked to leave.”
Doctors have submitted a memorandum to the Dean and are considering further steps in consultation with all stakeholders.
As the deadline looms, the standoff threatens to escalate into a full-blown health crisis, leaving patients caught in the crossfire between doctors and the state government.