J&K Government Bans Six Doctors for Private Practice During Duty Hours and Unethical Referrals
Srinagar:
In a significant move to curb unethical medical practices, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir’s Health & Medical Education Department has issued a strict ban on six doctors found guilty of engaging in private practice during official duty hours and making unethical referrals to private Empanelled Health Care Providers (EHCPs).
The action follows an evaluation conducted under the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)/AB PMJAY SEHAT Scheme by the State Health Agency, Jammu and Kashmir. The evaluation revealed that these doctors were extensively involved in private practice during their government duty hours and also made referrals that undermined the objectives of the AB-PMJAY/SEHAT Scheme.
Details of Doctors Involved in Private Practice During Duty Hours:
- Dr. Bilal Ahmad Bashir, Consultant (Surgeon), GMC Anantnag – 312 cases
- Dr. Ishaq, Medical Officer, DH Pulwama – 170 cases
- Dr. Younis Kamal, Associate Professor (Orthopaedics), GMC Anantnag – 185 cases
Details of Doctors Involved in Unethical Referrals to Private EHCPs:
- Dr. Vikas Gupta, Medical Officer, CHC Hiranagar – 19 cases
- Dr. Manju Kumari, Medical Officer, EH Vijaypur – 18 cases
- Dr. Raj Kumar Bhagat, Medical Officer, DH Samba – 12 cases
According to Government Order No. 509-JK (HME) of 2025, dated July 28, 2025, the work report clearly establishes that despite being full-time government employees, these doctors engaged in extensive private practice that significantly outweighed their official responsibilities, thereby undermining the purpose of the government health schemes.
The Health Department emphasized that strict measures will continue to ensure transparency and dedication among healthcare professionals serving in government hospitals. The ban aims to send a strong message that unethical practices will not be tolerated, ensuring that government health schemes reach the people they are meant to serve.
Further action against the concerned doctors is expected to follow as per service rules and legal provisions.