Following widespread condemnation of a viral video depicting the Health Minister’s harsh reprimand and purported suspension of Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar from Goa Medical College,Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has overturned the suspension order.

Taking to X, Chief Minister Sawant stated, “I have reviewed the issue at Goa Medical College and held discussions with the Health Minister. I want to assure the people of Goa that Dr.Rudresh Kuttikar will not be suspended.”

He further added, “The State Government and our dedicated medical team remain fully committed to ensuring the highest standards of healthcare for every citizen. We also appreciate the tireless efforts and invaluable service of our doctors, who continue to save lives.”

Incident Overview

The controversy erupted after a video circulated showing Goa Health Minister Vishwajit Rane publicly criticizing and ordering the suspension of Dr. rudresh Kuttikar at Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).

The Health Minister’s directive to suspend Dr. Kuttikar stemmed from a hospital inspection where a complaint was lodged, alleging that Dr. Kuttikar had refused to administer an injection to a patient. This action triggered immediate backlash from the medical community and the general public.

“I want to assure the people of Goa that Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar will not be suspended.”

In the viral video, Minister rane can be heard saying, as quoted by Indian Express, “You learn to control your tongue. You are a doctor. Don’t force me to act. Keep your hands out (of your pockets) when you are standing in front of me. I generally don’t lose my cool, but you have to behave yourself. However loaded (burdened) you may be, you will talk properly to the patients and guide the patients… Remove the mask when I am speaking to you.”

Addressing the medical superintendent, Rane demanded a suspension order, stating, “…Kick him out of here.”

Rane continued, “You are not authorised to speak when I am speaking. You get out of here. You are a doctor to serve the poor. I am suspending you… You just understand one thing, you are dealing with me. First, learn to shut up when I am talking to you. You can be anything. You want to file a case,go and file a case,but I am telling you,you are suspended,”

subsequently,Rane defended his actions,stating they where “in defense of a helpless,elderly woman”.

In a later post on X, Rane conceded, “…I accept that my tone and words could have been more measured. I’m not above reflection or criticism.I take full responsibility for how I communicated, and I assure you, such an approach will not be repeated,”

However, he maintained, “What I will not apologise for is standing up for a patient who was denied care.”