Sun, 17 May 2026
Gujarat News Updated May 17, 2026 · 19:46

Gujarat Health Minister Orders Stern Action Against Negligent Pharmacist

Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya has taken strict action against a junior pharmacist accused of negligence towards patients. An inquiry found sufficient medicine stock was available but patients were allegedly denied treatment. The pharmacist, Prashant Shrimali, has been transferred to Kutch and a departmental inquiry has been initiated. The government has warned that any dereliction of duty affecting patient care will invite strict disciplinary action.

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Gujarat Health minister takes strict action against pharmacist accused of negligence to patients

Gandhinagar, May 17

Gujarat Health Minister Praful Pansheriya on Sunday directed strict action against a junior pharmacist accused of negligence towards patients after reports surfaced that medicines were allegedly denied despite adequate stock being available in the state healthcare system.

According to the Health Department, the Minister took serious note of the issue and directed officials to conduct an immediate inquiry into the allegations.

The Gujarat government reiterated that negligence in matters concerning patient welfare and healthcare services would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Officials said the inquiry found that sufficient stock of medicines was available at Gandhinagar.

However, despite the availability of medicines, several patients allegedly failed to receive the required medicines, leading to complaints regarding the functioning of the concerned staff member.

Following the findings of the preliminary probe, junior pharmacist Prashant Shrimali, who was posted in Visnagar, has been transferred to Kutch with immediate effect.

The department has also issued directions to initiate a departmental inquiry against Shrimali to examine the matter in detail and determine accountability.

Health Department officials said the action reflects the state government's commitment towards maintaining accountability and discipline within the public healthcare system.

They added that strict measures are being implemented to ensure that patients visiting government hospitals and health centres receive medicines and treatment without inconvenience.

The department also reiterated its commitment to providing timely and quality healthcare services to citizens across Gujarat.

Authorities said that uninterrupted supply and proper distribution of medicines at government medical facilities remain among the top priorities of the state administration.

Officials also warned that any dereliction of duty, negligence, or misconduct by healthcare staff affecting patient care would invite strict disciplinary action in the future as well.

Health authorities said patient welfare and efficient healthcare delivery continue to remain central to the Gujarat government's healthcare policies and administrative priorities.

— IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Ramesh W
This is a classic case of the system failing the common man. The pharmacist denying medicines when stock is available is pure laziness or arrogance. But let's be real—transferring him to Kutch might just move the problem elsewhere. We need better monitoring and training, not just post-issue action. Still, better than nothing.
P
Priya S
Sad to see such incidents in a state known for its healthcare initiatives like the 'Maa Amrutam' scheme. One bad apple spoils the bunch. Hope this sends a strong message to all staff that patient care is non-negotiable. Also, patients should be encouraged to report such issues without fear—sometimes they just suffer silently.
K
Karthik V
Respectful criticism: While the minister's action is commendable, the timing of this announcement on a Sunday raises eyebrows—seems like a PR move to me. Also, why only a transfer? A departmental inquiry is needed, but what about the patients who suffered? They deserve an apology or compensation. Action for show or real reform? Let's see.
J
Jessica F
As someone who moved from the US to Gujarat, I've seen both systems. This is a step in the right direction, but consistency is key. In my experience, government hospital staff often show more care than private ones—so this negligence is an exception, not the rule. Happy to see accountability being taken seriously!
R
Rahul R
Nothing new. We hear about such issues every few months. The real problem is the systemic lack of oversight and a 'chalta hai' attitude among some staff. Transfer to Kutch? That's

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