Karnataka caps tenure for health officials amid staffing crisis

The government has made it clear that deputations will only be permitted against sanctioned posts of equivalent rank, and employees will not be allowed to occupy higher cadre positions or take on duties unrelated to their official designation.

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As per the news reports by the TNIE, Deputation periods will now be aligned with the state’s annual general transfer cycle. Staff whose deputation ends must report back to the Health Department; if not relieved by their superior, they will be considered “self-relieved” and must return on their own.

The order also introduces stringent measures to eliminate conflicts of interest, especially concerning private medical practice. Officers holding administrative positions will now be strictly barred from engaging in any form of private practice.

Violation of this rule will be treated as misconduct and will trigger disciplinary action under the Karnataka Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1957. Immediate removal from the administrative post may also follow.

Furthermore, medical specialists posted in administrative roles will be required to render specialist services for at least six hours per week in government district or taluk hospitals, or any other institution within their jurisdiction, in addition to their administrative duties, as authorized by their controlling officer.