Dr. Yudvir Singh Kotwal, the Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Kishtwar, was suspended on Friday for unauthorized absence from his duties. This decision came after the Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar noticed Dr. Kotwal’s absence during a field visit to the hospital.
The suspension order, according to reports received by The Chenab Times, stipulates that Dr. Kotwal’s absence violates Article 128 of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Service Rules. Consequently, he has been placed under suspension in accordance with Rule 31 of the same rules and will remain attached to the Chief Medical Office in Kishtwar during the suspension period.
The Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kishtwar has been tasked with conducting a discreet enquiry into the matter and submitting a detailed report within seven days, along with recommendations for further action.
While initially granted five days of casual leave, effective from January 15 to 19, this leave was sanctioned after Dr. Kotwal’s suspension. This raised concerns about potential irregularities, prompting intervention from higher authorities.
The Chief Secretary and the Secretary of Health and Medical Education reportedly intervened, leading to the immediate rescinding of the casual leave order by the DHSJ. This was confirmed through a subsequent official document stating that the earlier leave sanction for Dr. Kotwal was revoked with immediate effect.
The temporary responsibility of the Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Kishtwar has been assigned to the BMO Kishtwar, in addition to their existing duties. Meanwhile, Dr. Sajjid Hussain Butt, Consultant Surgeon at the hospital, will manage routine and emergency work during Dr. Kotwal’s absence.
The investigation into Dr. Kotwal’s unauthorized absence and the subsequent events is ongoing. Further developments are expected in the coming days.
The Chenab Times News Desk
