Govt doc in Kolkata suspended after found drunk on duty

A doctor of a government hospital in Kolkata was on Sunday found drunk during duty hours, leading to his suspension.

Prabir Ghosh, the doctor on duty in the emergency facility of Baghajatin Hospital in south Kolkata, was found drunk by relatives of a patient after which they staged a demonstration in front of the building in protest.

Later, Ghosh admitted in front of the media that he had gone outside the hospital and consumed alcohol during duty hours. The doctor, however, argued he took the liquor to get relief from pain in his leg.

Following the incident, he was suspended from service.

The medical fraternity called for cancellation of his registration.

Terming the incident as unfortunate, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who also looks after the health portfolio, told a TV channel, "If necessary, the doctor will be arrested, and I will sack him."

Union Minister of State for Health Sudip Bandopadhyay said, "This is really painful...Ghosh has tainted the image of this noble profession."

Director of Medical Education Sushanta Bandopadhyay said, strong action will be taken against Ghosh.