Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 28 October 2023
Residents of Shastri Nagar, the southernmost village in the Great Nicobar Island, voiced their outrage on October 27, 2023, as they gathered outside the local Sub-Centre to protest against a Community Health Officer (CHO) who had been failing to fulfil her responsibilities.
The CHO, whose role is vital to the health and well-being of the residents, was accused of not adhering to her duty, sparking a strong reaction from the villagers. The CHO was found living away from the Sub-Centre for almost the last two years, rendering her largely inaccessible to attend to health concerns, particularly during nighttime and extended hours of the day.
In response to the mounting public frustration, the Pradhan of the Laxmi Nagar Panchayat and concerned villagers led a protest, which ultimately compelled the Medical Officer In-Charge (MO I/C) of the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Gandhi Nagar to intervene. The MO I/C assured the villagers that the CHO would be directed to reside within the quarters attached to the Sub-Centre to ensure the consistent availability of health services.
Consequently, the MO I/C issued an order on October 27, 2023, instructing the CHO to relocate to the designated quarters attached to the Sub-Centre, effective immediately. Additionally, she was advised to seek leave a day prior when necessary.
However, it appears that the CHO remains defiant, refusing to comply with the directive issued by the MO I/C. She reportedly informed villagers that she would not adhere to the orders, despite the significant public outcry and official instructions. The CHO reportedly locked the Sub-Centre even today (28th October 2023) and refused to comply with the order issued by MO I/C.
Shastri Nagar Sub-Centre holds a crucial position in the region, catering to the health needs of the village’s residents, which include former servicemen and their families. The failure of the CHO to perform her duties has left the local populace concerned, particularly in situations requiring emergency medical attention or routine healthcare services.
The reluctance of the CHO to carry out her assigned responsibilities has raised serious concerns among the residents. Calls for appropriate action have emerged, emphasising the need to set an example for staff members who fail to fulfil their designated duties.