On Wednesday, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena approved the suspension of Dr. RN Das, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, due to his alleged involvement in the irregular and illegal registration of private nursing homes.
The order, dated May 29, 2024, stated that Dr. RN Das is suspended with immediate effect, in accordance with Rule-10 of the CCS (CCA) Rules, 1965.
During the suspension period, Dr. RN Das is required to stay in Delhi and cannot leave headquarters without prior permission. He is entitled to a subsistence allowance, subject to certain conditions.
The suspension comes following reported misconduct related to the unauthorised operation of Jyoti Nursing Home, Shahdara, during Dr. RN Das's tenure as Medical Superintendent of the Nursing Home Cell.
The genesis of the matter lies in a complaint regarding the illegal operation of "Jyoti Clinic & Nursing Home" despite the cancellation of its registration in November 2018.
The complaint alleged that officials of the Directorate of Health Services aided the nursing home in running without a valid licence. An inquiry by the Health & Family Welfare Department, GNCTD, concluded that Dr. RN Das was solely responsible for registering the clinic and colluding with its management.
Subsequently, the Anti-Corruption Branch of GNCTD investigated the matter and found prima facie evidence of corruption under the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988. Dr. RN Das, who served in the Nursing Home Cell for several years, is held responsible for the misconduct.
Despite initial resistance from certain quarters, the LG accepted clarifications provided by the Directorate of Vigilance, leading to Dr. RN Das's suspension.
Recent incidents, such as the fire at the Baby Care Centre in Vivek Vihar on May 25, 2024, further underscore Dr. RN Das's alleged negligence. He approved the registration of the nursing home without verifying its compliance with statutory requirements, including fire safety measures.
These incidents highlight the abuse of power by Dr. RN Das, who also serves as OSD to Health Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj.
The suspension of Dr. RN Das reflects the commitment to uphold integrity and accountability in public service. It sends a strong message against malpractices and underscores the importance of adhering to legal and ethical standards in healthcare administration.
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