Andhra Pradesh to recall 43 doctors for long absence from duty: Health Minister

Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav. File | Photo credit: Special arrangement

The Ministry of Health has decided to retire 43 civilian assistant surgeons from service due to long-term absence from duty.

Andhra Pradesh Health Minister Satya Kumar Yadav said in a statement on Wednesday (Jun 17, 2026) that some of these doctors have been absent for nearly four years and have not responded to show-cause notices served on them.

This is the second time in over a month that the government has cracked down on absentee doctors. In May, 51 doctors working in teaching hospitals were dismissed from service.

In a statement, the minister said 118 doctors were found absent on duty. Only nine entered the service after receiving the notice of muster. Of the 118, action was taken against 43 and 34 others resigned after receiving the notice. The government would accept some of these resignations, the minister said.

Another 19 doctors gave explanations that they could not attend to their duties for personal reasons, and the applications of 13 others were reviewed by the government.

Under the Andhra Pradesh Civil Services (Classification, Review and Appeal) Rules, 1991, the government appointed 11 officials to investigate the matter. An explanation will be sought from the doctors and action will be taken based on the investigation reports, KVN Director of Secondary Health Chakradhar Babu said.

Published – 18 Jun 2026 11:56 IST