IN A MOVE that has sent ripples through Chhattisgarh’s medical and legal communities, Dr. Pravesh Shukla, a prominent gastro surgeon at DKS Post Graduate Institute and Research Centre (DKS PGI & RC), Raipur, has been dismissed from service, according to official sources. This drastic action follows allegations of deliberate negligence in the treatment of Anwar Dhebar, a key figure in the ongoing Chhattisgarh liquor scam, who is currently imprisoned in Raipur Central Jail. Dhebar’s case has been a focal point in the state’s efforts to crack down on corruption, making the implications of this incident particularly significant.

 

The dismissal order, which was issued on 8th August 2024, came to light nearly 26 days later, sparking widespread discussions about the timing and transparency of the decision. A copy of the 2-pages order, signed by the Hospital Superintendent and Academic In-charge, DKS PGI & RC, Raipur, has also been accessed by The Hitavada. According to official sources, Dr Shukla is accused of intentionally disrupting Dhebar’s scheduled endoscopy by falsely recording in the hospital’s OPD slip that such procedures could not be performed at DKS Hospital. This act has raised serious concerns, especially as it is perceived as an attempt to obstruct the investigation into Dhebar’s involvement in the scam, a case that has already embroiled several high-ranking officials and businessmen in the state. Sources further revealed that on 8th June 2024, Anwar Dhebar was t r a n s f e r r e d from Raipur Central Jail to DKS Hospital for a medical examination. The endoscopy, deemed a critical part of his medical treatment, was inexplicably not conducted. Instead, Dr. Shukla allegedly noted in the OPD slip that the hospital did not have the facilities for endoscopy, a claim that has since been disputed by hospital authorities.

 

This discrepancy led to an internal review, after which Dr Shukla was served a notice in July, demanding a detailed explanation for his conduct. However, his response was found lacking in clarity and failed to justify the inconsistencies in his actions, prompting further disciplinary measures. In his defence, Dr. Shukla argued, as reported by official sources, that the endoscopic procedures conducted that day were limited to specific cases, such as paediatric and upper gastrointestinal issues, which differ significantly from adult colonoscopies. He also pointed out longstanding issues with the hospital’s endoscopic equipment, which he claimed was inadequate for the required procedure. Furthermore, Dr. Shukla mentioned that an alternative examination, a CT scan, was recommended for Dhebar but could not be performed due to elevated creatinine levels.

 

As a result, Dhebar was advised to seek a colonoscopy at another government hospital, further complicating the case and raising suspicions about the true motives behind the delay. Given the gravity of the situation, official sources confirmed that the Chhattisgarh government has terminated Dr. Shukla’s employment, citing violations of the Chhattisgarh Civil Services Conduct Rules, 1965. His actions were categorised as serious misconduct, particularly given the high-profile nature of the case. Additionally, DKS Hospital management has initiated the process for filing an FIR at the Gole Bazaar police station, with a formal case against Dr. Shukla expected to be registered shortly.