SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, March 9: Brushing aside the seniority of two medical officers (doctors), the state government has appointed Dr CK Sahi (1988 batch medical officer) as the new director-in-chief of state health services.
Dr Sahi is, at present, the additional chief medical officer (ACMO) of the Deoghar district.
In this regard, the special secretary of the Jharkhand government, Jayakishore Prasad, issued a notification appointing Dr Sahi as director of health services. He will replace Dr Birendra Kumar Singh.
Seniority ignored
The appointment of Dr Sahi as director-in-chief of health services has surprised doctors across the state. It is said he is junior to many medical officers on the seniority list. Dr Ranjan Sinha (Deoghar district civil surgeon) is Jharkhand’s senior medical officer.
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Dr Siddharth Sanyal, regional deputy director (RDD) health, North Chhotanagpur Division Hazaribagh, is second on the seniority list after civil surgeon Dr Ranjan Sinha. Sources in the state health department said that three months ago, the then additional chief secretary (ACS) health Arun Kumar Singh recommended Dr Siddharth Sanyal (1988 batch medical officer) for the post of director-in-chief health.
Dr Sahi not on promotion list
But after his retirement, his file was held up. Now, Dr Sahi’s name has been notified. Interestingly, two days ago, the government promoted 20 senior medical officers of the state, in which Dr CK Sahi’s name was missing.
New Director in-chief outlines his priority
While outlining his priority today, the new director-in-chief of the state’s health services, Dr CK Sahi, said he would focus on child and maternity health and promote preventive measures.
“I have not assumed office but have outlined my priorities to move on. I feel an awareness campaign and practical approach will help prevent many diseases, such as anaemia,” said Dr Sahi.
The new director-in-chief said he would also focus on fixing standardisation for Sadar Hospital and providing quality health services to tribals and weaker sections of people.
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