Goa’s Health Minister, Vishwajit Rane, issued a public apology to Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar, the Chief Medical Officer of Goa Medical College (GMC), following a public reprimand that ignited controversy. The incident, which occurred during a surprise visit to the medical college, led to widespread outrage and calls for the Minister’s resignation.
Taking to social media, the Health Minister expressed regret for his conduct. He stated that the situation was being politicized, with opposition parties demanding his removal from office. He acknowledged the sacred role of doctors in society, emphasizing their dedication to healing and saving lives, and conveyed his utmost respect for their contributions.
While acknowledging his error in communication, the Health Minister clarified that his primary concern was ensuring timely patient care within a responsive and compassionate public health system. He also voiced concern about disruptions in GMC services, impacting numerous patients. He urged doctors to consider their responsibility for public welfare.
The incident became a political flashpoint, and the Minister appealed to doctors to resume their duties with the same passion and commitment, emphasizing that any form of disservice to the people of Goa was unjustifiable. He called for unity and a renewed commitment to public health to ensure no patient suffered due to misunderstandings or conflicting priorities. Following the incident, the Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant, intervened to overrule the Health Minister’s suspension order of Dr. Kuttikar.
