The Government of Assam has relieved Abhijit Sarma of his duties as Superintendent of Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), citing public service interests in an order issued by the Medical Education and Research Department.

Sarma, who is also an Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery at GMCH, has been undergoing critical treatment for several months. In June, he was shifted to the Rabindranath Tagore International Institute of Cardiac Sciences (RTIICS) in Kolkata following deteriorating health. Doctors there have conducted extensive evaluations, and preparations for a transplant are reportedly underway.

His health condition has drawn concern within Assam’s medical fraternity, where he is recognised for his leadership and service.

Following his removal, Devajit Choudhury, Associate Professor in the Department of Surgery at GMCH, has been entrusted with the additional charge of Superintendent of GMCH. Choudhury was previously serving as Superintendent (in charge) of the State Cancer Institute, GMCH, a role from which he has now been relieved.

Meanwhile, Dwipen Khanikar, Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology at GMCH, has been assigned as Superintendent (in charge) of the State Cancer Institute, effective from the date he assumes charge.

The order was e-signed by Siddharth Singh, Commissioner and Secretary to the Government of Assam, Medical Education and Research Department.

The reshuffle comes at a time when GMCH is under heightened public scrutiny following the recent death of a newborn in the hospital’s intensive care unit, an incident that triggered widespread concern and allegations of negligence.

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