Cuttack: In a significant ruling, the Orissa High Court has directed the Odisha government to expedite the regular recruitment of assistant professors in state medical colleges. The directive, issued by Justice S K Panigrahi, emphasizes the need for stable and permanent appointments through the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC), criticizing the current practice of contractual hiring.
Justice Panigrahi highlighted the adverse impact of contractual appointments on the quality and stability of medical education. “These posts must be filled through regular appointments to ensure the integrity and stability of the academic and medical framework,” he stated. The court’s decision aims to address the ongoing recruitment delays and the pressing issue of vacant positions, which have been affecting the quality of medical education in the state.
The judgment came in response to a petition filed by Dr. Rakesh Kumar Ludam, a Medical Officer of the Odisha Medical and Health Service (OMHS) cadre, who had been serving as an assistant professor on a contractual basis. The court noted that the practice of replacing one contractual employee with another is unsustainable and called for a shift towards regular appointments.
The Odisha government has been filling these teaching positions through contractual engagements or deputations as an interim measure to meet the requirements of the National Medical Council (NMC).
