PANAJI: Health services at Goa Medical College (GMC) were disrupted today as doctors launched a protest against Health Minister Vishwajit Rane after he publicly reprimanded Chief Medical Officer Dr Rudresh Kuttikar.
The protest, led by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Council, saw participation from heads of departments, consultants, students, and interns. The medical community demands a public apology from the minister, along with an end to VIP culture at GMC and strict enforcement of rules prohibiting video recording in sensitive doctor-patient zones.
The unrest was triggered on Saturday after Rane publicly criticised Dr Kuttikar and announced plans to initiate suspension proceedings against him. The statement sparked widespread condemnation from the medical fraternity, political leaders, and citizens.
Facing mounting criticism, Rane attempted to defuse tensions on Sunday in an interview with Prudent Media, where he extended an apology to Dr Kuttikar, his family, and the larger medical community.
“I have no ego. I had no intention to hurt the medical fraternity. That said, I will always stand up for discipline at GMC,” he said.
Rane also clarified that he had not proceeded with the suspension. "Although I said that I am moving a file for the suspension of the doctor, I never went ahead with the procedure. So there is no question of suspension anymore,” he said.
His remarks came shortly after Chief Minister Pramod Sawant publicly assured that Dr Kuttikar would not be suspended.
Rane reiterated his apology today in a post on X, saying, “I extended my heartfelt apology to Dr Rudresh Kuttikar for the harsh words. I hold the highest respect for doctors’ contribution to our state. However, I am equally concerned about the disruption in services at Goa Medical College, which is now impacting thousands of innocent patients. I appeal to our doctors to return to duty with the same passion and commitment that defines their profession.”
Despite the minister’s assurances, protests at GMC continued, affecting hospital operations. A meeting was held between representatives of the protesting doctors and GMC Dean Dr Shivanand Bandekar, with the medical fraternity remaining resolute on its demands.
