Kejriwal, Lt Governor lock horns over vacant posts in Delhi hospitals

Vacant posts in city government hospitals have become a new flashpoint between Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, with both blaming each other for the delay in making appointments.

On Thursday, Baijal told Kejriwal that he was surprised that the Chief Minister has raised questions regarding filling up of vacant posts with retired personnel as Kejriwal himself had chaired a meeting wherein the decision was taken.

Baijal was referring to a letter by Kejriwal earlier this week, in which the latter said that 2,169 posts were lying vacant in hospitals as there were not enough retired personnel available.

Kejriwal also said that the decision to fill the posts only with retired personnel was taken with Baijal's approval and that the elected government was kept in the dark about the decision.

"I am surprised as to why the hiring was limited to retired people... I would also be grateful if necessary directions are issued to all officers to stop hiding files from the elected government," Kejriwal wrote.

On Thursday, Baijal wrote back to the Chief Minister, expressing his surprise over his letter.

"The proposal for engagement of retired employees against existing vacancies was moved by the Health and Family Welfare Department in pursuance of directions of the Chief Minister, in the meeting convened under his chairmanship on August 8, 2017. The minutes of that meeting were also issued by the CM Office. Therefore, it is surprising that the Chief Minister has now raised questions regarding the filling up of vacant posts with retired personnel," a statement from Baijal's office said.

Baijal also said that the appointment of retired people was an interim measure whereas regular recruitment is the only sustainable solution.

In a tweet, Kejriwal also urged the Lt Governor to approve two schemes on doorstep delivery of services and quality healthcare for all, which have been submitted for Baijal's reconsideration.

--IANS

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