The reinstated doctors in Durg are Dr Alok Sharma and Dr Sanjeev Dubey. Both submitted their joining reports before Durg CMHO Dr Mithilesh Chaudhary. Hospital staff and colleagues welcomed them, reflecting a sense of relief within the local health system, which had been under strain since their dismissal.
The reinstatement follows prolonged protests by NHM employees who were removed from service for their alleged involvement in leading a statewide strike a few months ago. The agitation was organised to press for long-pending demands related to job security, service conditions, and remuneration under the NHM framework. The government had taken a strict stance at the time, dismissing 25 NHM employees, including doctors, from various districts.
After the dismissals, affected employees and their unions consistently demanded reinstatement, warning that prolonged inaction could further disrupt essential health services. The government had earlier assured employees that the issue would be resolved soon, with indications that reinstatement could take place before Diwali. Despite two cabinet meetings on the matter, the decision was delayed, leading to growing dissatisfaction among NHM staff.
As uncertainty continued, employee unions threatened renewed protests and an extended strike, raising concerns about the impact on healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and tribal areas. With pressure mounting, the state government ultimately approved the reinstatement, paving the way for employees to resume their duties.
Apart from Durg, NHM employees have been reinstated in districts including Balod, Balodabazar, Bemetara, Bilaspur, Dantewada, Gariaband, Janjgir-Champa, Kanker, Kawardha, Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki, Narayanpur, Raigarh, and Sukma. The list includes doctors, medical officers, and other health personnel who play a critical role in frontline healthcare services.
Health department officials indicated that the reinstatement aims to stabilise the public health system and prevent further disruption. While no official statement has been issued on disciplinary proceedings, sources said the government expects employees to maintain continuity of services and avoid actions that could affect patient care.
The return of NHM staff is expected to ease workforce shortages and improve service delivery across government health facilities. However, employee organisations have stated that dialogue on broader policy issues and employment conditions must continue to ensure long-term stability within the NHM workforce.
