Surprise Inspection Reveals Over 90% Employee Absence at Shopian District Hospital

In Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district, a surprise inspection at the local hospital revealed over 90% of staff, including doctors, were absent. This inspection was conducted by the additional deputy commissioner at 10:10 am, following orders from the deputy commissioner. Officials reported that only 17 out of 198 employees were present during this check.

The absence of medical and ministerial staff has caused significant inconvenience to the public. The biometric attendance report confirmed that most doctors, medical officers, paramedical staff, and ministerial staff were not at work. This irregularity prompted authorities to seek explanations from those missing.

Employee Accountability Measures

On Tuesday, the deputy commissioner's office issued a circular addressing unauthorised absences. It stated that one day's salary would be deducted from any absent employee and credited to the District Red Cross Society. This measure aims to hold employees accountable for their attendance.

Following the inspection, the deputy commissioner ordered the hospital's medical superintendent to demand explanations from all absentee employees. They are required to justify their absence and explain why disciplinary action should not be taken against them under Jammu and Kashmir CSRs.

Response and Consequences

The absentee employees must submit their responses within three days. These replies should include views, comments, and recommendations from the medical superintendent. Failure to respond will result in salary deductions and further action under existing rules.

The hospital's management is expected to address this issue promptly to ensure better service delivery to the public. The authorities are keen on maintaining discipline among public servants to prevent such occurrences in the future.