CHOUGACHHA, Jashore — Dr. Mridul Kanti, a physician at Chougachha Upazila Health Complex in Jashore, has been absent for 10 years but remains on the books. Two other doctors have also been away from their posts for extended periods. Because the positions are not formally vacant, authorities cannot post replacements, leaving medical services disrupted.
According to sources, medical officer Mridul Kanti has not reported to work since 2014, leaving without informing the authorities. Medical officer Saima Nahid Shanta has been absent since 2021, and medical officer Golam Rasul since 2019.
Local health complex officials have repeatedly notified higher authorities, but the Directorate General of Health Services has taken no action against the three. As a result, the posts remain formally occupied, and no new doctors can be assigned. The shortage is straining the remaining staff as patient pressure mounts.
Administrative records show Chougachha Upazila Health Complex has 32 sanctioned doctor positions. On paper, 17 doctors are listed as working, but three of them have been absent for years. Four others are on attachment to the 250-bed Jashore General Hospital. Two more are on medical leave or training, and two of the remaining eight hold administrative posts. Only six doctors are currently providing care at what was once promoted as a model facility.
A source said even doctors currently posted at the hospital are seeking transfers because of the patient load. On Wednesday, long lines of patients were seen outside the outpatient department.
Dr. Saidur Rahman Imon, an outpatient physician, said heavy patient turnout is routine. “Patients come around the clock at this hospital. The number of doctors is far short of what’s needed,” he said.
A reliable source said the absent doctors are living abroad and will not return.
Dr. Ahsanul Mizan Rumi, the Chougachha health and family planning officer, said he had recently joined the hospital and had already informed senior authorities about the three absentees. “I hope the problem will be resolved,” he said.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report