The Jharkhand High Court has stayed the state government’s controversial order to remove Dr. Raj Kumar from his position as Director of the Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ranchi. This development highlights the paramount importance of procedural fairness and constitutional safeguards in administrative decisions.
Background RIMS Director Removal
On April 17, 2025, Jharkhand Health Minister Irfan Ansari issued an order removing Dr. Raj Kumar from his directorial position at RIMS. The decision, reportedly approved by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, cited “unsatisfactory performance” and “non-compliance” with various departmental and council directives. It offered Dr. Kumar three months’ salary and allowances upon immediate termination.
Points to Remember:
- Dr. Raj Kumar was summarily removed from his position at RIMS.
- Cited reasons: Poor performance and non-compliance.
- Approval came from the Chief Minister.
- Offered three months’ salary post-dismissal.
- No prior notice or opportunity to respond.
Legal Challenge RIMS Director Removal
Source: AP Breaking News
Dr. Kumar filed a legal challenge in the Jharkhand High Court, alleging violation of Article 311 of the Constitution, which protects civil servants from arbitrary removal. He argued that the removal was “autocratic” and lacked due process, as he wasn’t given a chance to explain or contest the allegations.
Points to Remember:
- Dr. Kumar cited Article 311 in his defence.
- Alleged arbitrary and autocratic action.
- Claimed no prior notice was served.
- Emphasised violation of principles of natural justice.
- Legal battle was initiated in the Jharkhand High Court.
βοΈ Key Provisions of Article 311
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Article 311(1):
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No government employee (under Union or State) shall be dismissed or removed by an authority subordinate to the one that appointed them.
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Article 311(2):
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No employee shall be dismissed, removed, or reduced in rank without:
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An inquiry where they are informed of the charges against them.
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An opportunity to defend themselves.
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Court’s Observations on RIMS Director Removal
Source: The Times of India, The New Indian Express
Justice Deepak Roshan, while hearing the case, declared the state’s action as “legally untenable” and criticised the government for issuing a “stigmatic” removal order without due process. The court emphasised that any action affecting a person’s reputation must strictly follow the principles of natural justice.
The state government has been directed to submit an affidavit, with the next hearing scheduled for May 6, 2025.
Points to Remember:
- Justice Deepak Roshan presided over the case.
- Removal termed “legally untenable” and “stigmatic”.
- Due process and natural justice are highlighted.
- State directed to submit an affidavit.
- Next hearing is set for May 6, 2025.
Also Read:Β Jharkhand NEWS – 19th April 2025
Political Repercussions
The removal has sparked political controversy. Opposition leader Babulal Marandi alleged that Dr. Kumar was targeted for resisting financial malpractices. He claimed Dr. Kumar faced pressure to clear undue payments worth crores to private diagnostic centres, and his refusal triggered his dismissal.
Points to Remember:
- Allegations of corruption within Health Department.
- Dr. Kumar resisted clearing irregular payments.
- Political accusations against Health Minister.
- Issue highlights administrative integrity challenges.
- Opposition using incident for political mileage.
Conclusion
The Jharkhand High Court’s stay order on the RIMS Director Removal showcases the judiciary’s role as a sentinel of civil liberties and constitutional governance. The upcoming court proceedings will determine not only the future of Dr. Kumar but also set a precedent for how bureaucratic removals should be conducted in the future.
