Unauthorised absence: SDMC warns health staff of sackings

NEW DELHI: The South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) has issued a stern warning to its public health officials making it clear that any dereliction of duty during the time of Covid-19 pandemic will lead to disciplinary action and even termination of services, confirmed a senior official.
“It has been directed by commissioner Gyanesh Bharti that the public health department is covered under the essential services and all employees are duty bound,” the order reads.It was issued after some staff reportedly made excuses of difficulties in travelling, said an official.
Civic staff will show the government-issued identity cards to cross state borders and report for duty, the order stated, underlining that “any unauthorised absence from duty will be dealt with seriously, including termination of services under section 56J” of the service rules. Under the section, an official can be compulsorily retired if his service leads to public loss.
“In extreme cases, the administration is also empowered to invoke the epidemic act for ensuring continued performance of machinery,” the official said.
SDMC is trying to ramp up its human resources in the health department as many posts are already lying vacant, said an official. The corporation has decided to take help of healthcare professionals, who are ready to volunteer, at its health centres and dispensaries, said a spokesperson. “Many retired and fresh doctors, nurses and even medical students have come forward to serve the nation at this crucial time. They will work for free,” he added.
The plan has been approved initially for three months and can be discontinued any time depending on the requirement, the spokesperson said.