Has the Jharkhand HC Ordered RIMS to Start Recruitment?
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Synopsis
In a critical move, the Jharkhand High Court has directed RIMS and the state government to kickstart the recruitment process for healthcare professionals within four weeks. This comes amidst concerns over staff shortages and medical equipment mismanagement, highlighting a pressing need for improved patient care in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Jharkhand High Court mandates recruitment in four weeks.
- Concerns over mismanagement at RIMS highlighted.
- Health Secretary and RIMS Director questioned by the court.
- Issues with doctors receiving NPA while practicing privately raised.
- PIL filed by Jyoti Sharma stresses urgent need for staff and equipment.
Ranchi, Aug 6 (NationPress) The Jharkhand High Court has mandated the state government and the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ranchi, to commence the recruitment process for open positions of doctors and health officials within a span of four weeks.
This directive was issued by a division bench, including Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Rajesh Shankar, while addressing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning the reported mismanagement and lack of personnel and medical supplies at the state's leading government hospital.
On the second consecutive day of hearings, the court had previously summoned the state Health Secretary and the RIMS Director to attend in person. Both officials complied and were present in court on Wednesday.
The bench raised concerns with the Health Secretary regarding why the funds allocated periodically by the government to RIMS were not utilized effectively, and questioned the absence of a monitoring system to ensure accountability for unspent funds.
In reply, the official clarified that RIMS operates as an autonomous institution, and fund usage is determined by the steering committee's decisions.
The court also directed pointed inquiries at RIMS Director Dr. Raj Kumar, questioning the amount of funding received from the government during his leadership, the number of machines and medical equipment that were acquired, the amount of money returned, and the delay in procuring essential machines such as MRI scanners.
Dr. Raj Kumar has been instructed to submit a comprehensive affidavit responding to all these questions by Thursday and to appear in court on that date.
During the proceedings, the matter of doctors receiving non-practicing allowance (NPA) while engaging in private practice was also highlighted.
The court requested biometric attendance records for these doctors and inquired about the actions taken or planned to address this misconduct.
The PIL was initiated by petitioner Jyoti Sharma, who brought to light the issue of unfilled positions at RIMS and the lack of essential medical equipment, which is severely affecting patient care.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the gravity of the Jharkhand High Court's directives. The court's insistence on timely recruitment and accountability at RIMS underscores the urgent need for systemic reform in the healthcare sector. The ongoing issues of mismanagement and resource allocation must be addressed to ensure that patient care is not compromised.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Jharkhand HC's directive to RIMS?
The directive was prompted by a PIL highlighting mismanagement, staff shortages, and lack of medical equipment at RIMS.
What is the timeline for the recruitment process?
The Jharkhand HC has mandated that the recruitment process for vacant positions must commence within four weeks.
Who are the key officials involved in this case?
Key officials include the Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan, Justice Rajesh Shankar, the state Health Secretary, and RIMS Director Dr. Raj Kumar.
What issues did the court raise during the hearing?
The court questioned the improper utilization of funds and the lack of essential medical equipment procurement at RIMS.
Who filed the PIL that led to this court hearing?
The PIL was filed by petitioner Jyoti Sharma, who raised concerns about unfilled posts and equipment shortages affecting patient care.
