OPSC qualifiers threaten to relinquish appointment in Odisha medical service

Bhubaneswar: Several candidates who recently qualified the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) exam for recruitment in various medical posts in the State have threatened to turn down their appointments protesting engagement without proper counselling and appointment in random locations irrespective of their merit ranks.

The candidates alleged that though they had appeared the OPSC examination for recruitment in several posts like medical officers, dental and assistant surgeon during 2018-2019 session, the government hurriedly posted them at random locations irrespective of their merits and without proper counselling in view of regulation of the model code of conduct for upcoming elections.

"Had the Heath department conducted the examination beforehand, we could have avoided this situation but instead of solving our problems, it is unconcerned over such overnight appointments. Now our merits seem pointless due to such chaotic postings," said, a newly appointed doctor Soumrabrata Panda.

The doctors further allege that the Government is using such appointments as an election stunt as the provisions in the appointment letter clearly mention that the posts are not regular but contractual.

"The Government is simply trying to advertise that they have given so many jobs but the reality is different. The letters clearly mention that our appointment is not regular. If our issues are not addressed on priority basis, we will be forced to refrain from joining the services," said another agitated doctor Suchismita Mahala.