Caught On Camera: Maharashtra Medical Officer found drunk, inquiry ordered

Washim: In a shocking incident, a medical officer working at an emergency department of a sub-district hospital in Karanja has been released from duty until investigation after he was allegedly found in an intoxicated state during duty hours. The video showing the incident went viral on social media. 

Following the circulation of the video depicting the doctor allegedly consuming alcohol while on duty, the hospital authorities have initiated departmental action against him. Currently, an investigation is underway to determine the reason behind the doctor's controversial action. 

The viral footage showed hospital staff directing the intoxicated doctor to a bed, with others urging him to go home. Unfortunately, he seemed unable to comprehend the situation and had to be moved in a wheelchair to his bed by the hospital staff. 

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According to an India Today news report, the incident came to light on December 24 when someone at the hospital recorded the doctor posted to emergency duty consuming alcohol and being unable to function properly due to extreme intoxication. 

Following this, the Medical Superintendent in charge of the hospital, Dr Mahesh Lahane was alerted about the incident and as a result he took prompt action against the doctor based on gathered evidence. 

Acknowledging the severity of the situation, Dr Lahane informed higher officials and initiated departmental action against the doctor. As a consequence, he was relieved from duties at Karanja Hospital.

“The incident took place on December 24, and I received a call about the incident at around 6 pm, saying that the doctor posted on emergency duty was in a drunk state. I raised the issue with higher officials,” Lahane told the daily adding that further action will be taken against him. 

Medical Dialogues team had earlier reported that the Ethics and Medical Registration Board (EMRB) of the National Medical Commission (NMC) specified that intoxication during duty or off duty affecting professional practice will be considered as misconduct resulting in suspension.

As per the Draft Registered Medical Practitioner (Professional Conduct) Regulations, 2022, doctors can now get suspended for a period ranging from 3 months to 3 years if they are found guilty of attending patients while intoxicated.

"Use of Alcohol or other intoxicants during duty or off duty which can affect professional practice will constitute misconduct. (L3, L4)," read Section 23 of the Draft Regulations.

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