Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane has suspended a government doctor following allegations of patient harassment, prompting widespread public backlash and calls for deeper healthcare reforms.
The incident reportedly occurred at a government health facility in North Goa, where a female patient filed a complaint accusing the doctor of inappropriate behavior during a consultation. The complaint led to an internal inquiry, after which the Health Minister ordered the doctor’s immediate suspension pending further investigation.
“This government has zero tolerance for such misconduct,” said Rane in a press briefing on Monday. “The dignity and safety of patients will always remain our top priority.”
However, the minister’s decision has not quelled public dissatisfaction. Several citizens and advocacy groups criticized the government for reacting only after the issue became public, and not addressing what they describe as a pattern of negligence within state-run hospitals.
“The suspension is a start, but it cannot stop here,” said Anjali Kamat, a Panaji-based women’s rights activist. “There must be structural reforms and mandatory training on ethics for all medical staff.”
The Goa Medical Council has also initiated an independent investigation into the matter. The suspended doctor is expected to appear before a disciplinary committee later this week. According to sources, legal and counseling support is being provided to the complainant.
In response to the controversy, the Health Minister announced plans to implement new protocols, including mandatory sensitization sessions for government-employed healthcare workers and improved grievance redressal mechanisms.
Medical professionals have also voiced their opinions. “Healthcare systems need both accountability and training,” said Dr. Ramesh Kamat, a retired surgeon. “This case should lead to institutional safeguards, not just temporary fixes.”
The incident has reignited concerns regarding the safety of patients in public hospitals and the effectiveness of current monitoring systems. Civil society groups are urging the government to introduce third-party audits, establish independent complaint cells, and provide better patient education.
As investigations continue, the Goa Health Department faces increasing pressure to act decisively and transparently to restore public trust in the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
