Patna: The Bihar Health Department has removed Dr Narendra Pratap Singh from the additional charge of Principal at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), following a surprise inspection by Health Minister Nishant Kumar on June 23.
Dr Geeta Sinha has been appointed as the new principal of PMCH with immediate effect, according to departmental orders issued after an inquiry into the incident.
Surprise Inspection at PMCH
During the inspection, the minister found the hospital administration operating without senior supervisory presence. Officials stated that Dr Singh was not available at his office during duty hours and could not be reached despite repeated phone calls.
The inspection was part of a routine review of services at Patna Medical College and Hospital, one of the state’s largest government medical institutions.
Findings of the Inquiry
A subsequent inquiry by the Health Department found that Dr Singh was reportedly at his private clinic during official duty hours. Officials also stated that a government vehicle assigned to him was located outside the clinic during the investigation.
The department noted that no leave application had been submitted and no formal handover of charge had been made to another officer.
Administrative Action
The Health Department described the case as involving administrative negligence, dereliction of duty, and unauthorised absence. Action was taken approximately 48 hours after the inspection.
Following the decision, Dr Singh has been relieved of his additional charge and posted as Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Government Medical College, Bettiah.
Response from the Principal
Dr Narendra Pratap Singh said he was unwell at the time of the inspection. He stated that he had suffered an accidental injury involving hot water and claimed to have supporting evidence for his condition. He said he would later present his explanation to senior officials.
Hospital Review and Next Steps
Health officials, including the Health Department Secretary Kumar Ravi and hospital administration staff, reviewed hospital functioning after the inspection. Authorities have indicated that further review of operational gaps at PMCH may continue as part of administrative reforms.
