Beltangady: A pharmacy officer at the government hospital in Beltangady has been suspended following allegations of misconduct made by a female outsourced employee and the initiation of a departmental inquiry into the matter.

The officer, identified as Chandrashekhar, was placed under suspension by the Department of Health and Family Welfare Services pending further investigation into the allegations.

According to reports, a complaint was lodged on June 11 alleging inappropriate behaviour by the pharmacy officer towards a woman employee working at the Beltangady Taluk Hospital.

Internal Complaints Committee recommends action

Following the complaint, the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) convened a meeting to examine the allegations and the available records related to the case.

The committee reportedly recommended that disciplinary action be initiated against Chandrashekhar under the relevant legal and service rules. Authorities also reviewed documents submitted during the proceedings, including the First Information Report (FIR) and written statements provided by witnesses.

Officials took note of the complainant’s absence during the inquiry proceedings while continuing to examine the documentary evidence and other materials placed before the committee.

Prima facie case established, say authorities

After reviewing the available records, authorities concluded that a prima facie case had been established against the officer.

According to the findings, the alleged conduct amounted to a violation of Rules 3(1), 3(2) and 3(3) of the Karnataka Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 2021. The authorities also observed that the officer had allegedly acted in a manner unbecoming of a government servant.

Based on these findings, it was decided that Chandrashekhar should be placed under suspension pending the completion of the departmental inquiry.

Suspension ordered by Health and Family Welfare director

Dr Rajani M, Director of Health and Family Welfare Services, has ordered the immediate suspension of the pharmacy officer from government service on charges related to misconduct, dereliction of duty and negligence.

The suspension order further states that Chandrashekhar shall not leave the headquarters during the period of suspension without obtaining prior permission from the competent authority.

Departmental proceedings are expected to continue in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures.

Inquiry to determine further course of action

Officials said the suspension is an interim administrative measure and that the departmental inquiry will determine the subsequent course of action in the matter.

The case has drawn attention to the importance of workplace grievance redressal mechanisms and the role of Internal Complaints Committees in addressing allegations of misconduct in government institutions.

Further action in the case will depend on the findings of the ongoing inquiry and the recommendations made by the competent authorities.