Government warns action as doctors shun far-flung postings

Srinagar, Feb 12: The refusal of doctors to join postings in far-flung areas, lack of incentives for serving in difficult regions, and alleged non-adherence to transfer and posting policies in the Health Department came to light following a question on staff shortages at Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Tangdhar in Karnah.

Replying to a starred question by MLA Javaid Ahmad Mirchal, Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo acknowledged the shortage of staff at SDH Tangdhar in Karnah constituency and said steps had been initiated to fill vacant posts of doctors and paramedical staff in far-flung and border areas.

Official details revealed that of the seven doctors posted at SDH Tangdhar, one took voluntary retirement in 2024, while another has been absent from duty since May 2025. Additionally, nine ANM/FMPHW staff members were relocated from SDH Tangdhar to other health centres.

The government also informed that two doctors — Dr Usma Rashid and Dr Babar Mohammad — appointed as Medical Officers in 2024 and posted at NTPHC Hajinar and NTPHC Gundishort, were terminated from service for failing to join their duties.

Following the minister’s reply, MLA Mirchal sought clarification on whether newly recruited medical officers would be posted at SDH Tangdhar and other primary health centres in the area. He stated that out of 149 sanctioned posts at SDH and adjoining PHCs, only 56 were currently filled, reflecting what he termed as neglect of healthcare needs in the region.

He also highlighted the area’s difficult geographical conditions, noting that Karnah remains cut off from other parts of Kashmir during winters. “Even today, Sadhna Top is covered with snow, and my area is inaccessible,” he said.

Minister Itoo said the Chief Minister’s announcement regarding incentives for service in difficult areas was expected to help address challenges faced by underserved populations. “We will be incentivising doctors who work in rural and difficult areas,” she said.

Meanwhile, legislator Nazir Ahmed Khan (Gurezi) suggested that postings to remote areas should clearly specify the tenure of service. “The posting letter must mention the duration, such as one year, so that doctors know they will not be posted there indefinitely,” he said, raising concerns over non-compliance with the transfer policy in the J&K Health and Medical Education Department.