The Madhya Pradesh High Court on Friday issued a “last chance” to the All Indian Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, to submit its response to a petition calling for the dismissal of 14 “ineligible” employees hired in 2012.
A division bench, consisting of Chief Justice S. K. Kait and Justice Vivek Jain, allotted AIIMS Bhopal four weeks to provide its response after the institution requested more time to react to the public interest litigation (PIL) regarding the appointments.
Stern Warning
The court emphasized that this would be the final opportunity for AIIMS Bhopal to furnish its response. It cautioned that non-compliance within the stipulated timeframe would result in a penalty of ₹10,000 for each respondent.
“Last opportunity is granted to the respondents who have not filed the reply to the present petition to do so within four weeks, failing which the same shall be accepted with a cost of ₹10,000 each,” the bench declared in its order issued on March 25.
Background of the Case
The PIL lodged in the High Court claims that 14 individuals were appointed to different positions at AIIMS Bhopal in 2012 despite not meeting eligibility criteria. The petition calls for their removal, alleging breaches of recruitment regulations.
The case has been unresolved for a significant period, with AIIMS Bhopal experiencing continual delays in its response. The recent ruling by the High Court places pressure on the institution to validate these appointments or face monetary penalties.
The court has established a four-week timeframe for AIIMS Bhopal to reply. Should the institution neglect to comply, the High Court may take further legal measures or impose additional fines.
The case is anticipated to establish a crucial precedent concerning accountability in government medical facilities and the clarity of recruitment practices.
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