Dr. Narendra Pratap Singh Calls Action "Authoritarian," Appeals to CM and PM for Justice
Patna: A major controversy has erupted at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) after Dr. Narendra Pratap Singh was removed from his position as Acting Principal. Appearing before the media for the first time since his removal, Dr. Singh strongly criticized the government's decision, describing it as "authoritarian." During a press conference, he displayed burn injuries on his abdomen and claimed that an accident had prevented him from reporting to the hospital on time. According to him, action was taken without giving him an opportunity to present his side of the story.
Meanwhile, the government has alleged that Dr. Singh was at his private clinic during official duty hours, and that this formed the basis for the disciplinary action. The matter has since become the subject of administrative and political debate across Bihar.
Dr. Singh Presents His Explanation
Addressing the media, Dr. Narendra Pratap Singh stated that he had not been treated fairly. He claimed that on the day of the incident, he suffered an accident that caused burn injuries to his abdomen, making it impossible for him to reach the hospital on time.
To support his claim, he showed the burn marks to journalists and maintained that his absence from duty was due to an unforeseen emergency rather than intentional negligence.
According to Dr. Singh, if the authorities had listened to his explanation before taking action, the actual circumstances would have become clear.
Calls the Decision "Authoritarian"
Dr. Singh described the disciplinary action as "authoritarian," arguing that every government employee has the right to be heard before any administrative decision is taken against them.
He alleged that he was removed from his post without being given an opportunity to explain his situation, despite serving the institution honestly for many years. He further claimed that the decision had also damaged his professional reputation.
Appeals to the Chief Minister and Prime Minister
Dr. Singh announced that he intends to take the matter to the Chief Minister of Bihar, the Union Health Minister, and the Prime Minister of India, seeking justice and a fair review of the decision.
He requested an impartial inquiry into the entire incident, expressing confidence that a transparent investigation would establish the facts and ensure justice.
Government's Position
According to government sources, the action against Dr. Singh was taken on the basis of available evidence and preliminary findings.
The government has alleged that he was present at his private clinic during official duty hours, which, if established, would constitute a violation of service rules. Officials maintain that the disciplinary action followed established administrative procedures.
Further departmental proceedings and official inquiries are expected to continue.
Matter Becomes a Major Public Discussion
PMCH is Bihar's largest government medical institution, serving thousands of patients every day. Consequently, any administrative decision involving its senior leadership attracts widespread public attention.
Following Dr. Singh's removal, the issue has become a topic of discussion within the medical community, administrative circles, and political forums across the state.
Debate Over Administrative Accountability
The controversy has expanded beyond the removal of a single official and has sparked broader discussions regarding administrative accountability, due process, and the principles of natural justice.
Some experts argue that any employee facing allegations should be given an opportunity to present a defense before disciplinary action is finalized. Others emphasize that maintaining discipline and accountability within public institutions also requires timely administrative action.
Possible Impact on Healthcare Administration
As PMCH is the state's premier government hospital, administrative instability could potentially affect its functioning. Healthcare experts believe that the dispute should be resolved promptly while ensuring that patient care and hospital operations remain the highest priority.
Facts Yet to Be Officially Determined
At present, both sides have presented conflicting accounts. Dr. Narendra Pratap Singh maintains that his absence resulted from an accident that caused burn injuries, while the government alleges that he was attending his private clinic during official working hours.
The actual circumstances will become clear only after the completion of an official inquiry and examination of all available evidence.
What Happens Next?
If Dr. Singh formally approaches higher authorities, the matter could undergo further administrative review or investigation. At the same time, the government is expected to continue its disciplinary process in accordance with applicable rules.
For now, the issue has emerged as one of the most closely watched administrative controversies in Bihar's healthcare sector. Attention is now focused on the findings of the official investigation and the decisions that authorities may take based on those findings.
