Sambalpur: Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Director Ashwini Kumar Pujahari, who was in the eye of the storm for his alleged ‘unproven therapies’ and subsequent standoff with junior doctors’ association (JDA), resigned from his post, Saturday.
Pujahari has reportedly sent his resignation to Governor Professor Ganeshi Lal.
Addressing a presser in Sambalpur, Pujahari stated that he had no other option than to resign. He further alleged that despite complying with the show cause notice, he received no communication from the State government.
Worth mentioning, a video showing the doctor using edible salt on a cancer patient during a surgery had gone viral on social media in December last year.
Taking cognizance of the incident, the State Government served him a show-cause notice on December 8 asking him to reply on the allegations leveled against him within three days. He was also asked to remain on leave till further order by the authorities. The move had come after the probe committee rejected Dr Pujahari’s alleged illegal experiment for treating cancer.
Earlier, Dr Pujahari had withdrawn himself from surgical practice at the medical college. In a letter to the Surgery HoD of VIMSAR, he expressed that he will not be able to carry out his responsibility.
It is pertinent to mention here that the JDA had launched a cease work protest in November 2018 demanding ouster of Pujahari for his alleged autocratic style of functioning and giving unproven therapies to patients at the hospital. The JDA withdrew their strike Pujahari was sent on leave on December 8 last year.
Odisha Health department Commissioner-cum-Secretary had also served a show-cause notice to Pujahari basing on the findings of an inquiry committee which was earlier constituted to investigate the allegations.
“I had submitted my reply along with documentary, photographic and video proof in connection with the show cause notice in December last year. All the evidences nullify the complaints brought against me,” said Pujahari.
Pujhari further claimed that he had requested Odisha government to either restore his position or fast disposal of the matter.
“I had always worked for the development of the hospital. I tried to enforce discipline by ensuring that UG classes were held on time besides putting a check on irregularities and corrupt practices on campus,” Pujahari added.
PNN