17 medical officers sacked over absenteeism, duty lapses

Written By : Rumela De Sarkar Published On 2026-01-13T14:47:47+05:30 | Updated On 13 Jan 2026 2:47 PM IST

Lucknow: Acting on repeated complaints of absenteeism, misbehaviour with patients, and failure to follow official instructions, the Uttar Pradesh government has taken strict disciplinary action by dismissing 17 medical officers from government hospitals after departmental reviews and multiple warnings failed to correct their lapses in duty.

According to the news reports, investigations found that several of the dismissed medical officers had remained absent from their postings for extended periods without authorisation, directly impacting healthcare services at government hospitals and community health centres.

Also Read:2 GSVM doctors terminated for being absent from duty

Pathak said that departmental officials attempted to contact the absent doctors several times, but no satisfactory response was received, according to a statement issued by his office here. He instructed the additional chief secretary of the health department to initiate their dismissal from service with immediate effect, reports PTI.

The government also noted that numerous patient complaints regarding rude behaviour, non-availability of doctors during duty hours, and disregard for departmental orders were taken seriously. These complaints were verified through surprise inspections, attendance records, and reports submitted by district health authorities. In several instances, doctors were found missing during inspections despite being officially posted at medical facilities.

Speaking to Free Press Journal, Health department officials said the move is aimed at sending a clear message that negligence in public service, especially in essential sectors like healthcare, will not be tolerated. The department has reiterated that government doctors are expected to adhere strictly to duty schedules and maintain professional conduct with patients.

To prevent similar issues in the future, senior health officials have been directed to enhance monitoring mechanisms, including regular inspections, biometric attendance systems, and periodic checks of grievance redressal procedures. District-level officers have also been instructed to ensure that patient care continues uninterrupted despite the vacancies created by these dismissals.

Officials added that disciplinary proceedings against other erring personnel are under review, with more action possible if violations are found. The state government reiterated that improving the quality of healthcare services and ensuring accountability of medical staff remain top priorities.

Also Read:4 UP Govt doctors sacked over unauthorised absence

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that, after taking strict action against four government doctors who remained absent from duty without prior approval, the Uttar Pradesh Health Department had terminated their services.

Uttar Pradesh governmentgovernment hospitalsabsentee doctorsdisciplinary actionmedical officers

Rumela De Sarkar

With a keen interest in storytelling and a dedication to uncovering facts, Rumela De Sarkar joined Medical Dialogues as a Correspondent in 2024. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of North Bengal. Rumela covers a wide range of healthcare topics, including medical news, policy updates, and developments related to doctors, hospitals, and medical education