Inquiry Sought Over Surat Civil Hospital Appointment Row

Surat | Gujarat — A storm is brewing around one of South Gujarat’s most critical public health institutions after a formal complaint demanded a high-level probe into the appointment of Dr. Parul Vadgama as Medical Superintendent in Charge at New Civil Hospital, Surat. The representation alleges that the appointment bypassed seniority norms, raises concerns about political influence, and questions possible violations of government conduct rules — igniting debate over transparency and trust in the state’s healthcare administration.

Complaint Filed With Top Authorities

A written representation by citizen Sanjay Ezhava has been submitted to multiple constitutional and administrative authorities, including the Chief Minister, Governor, Gujarat Vigilance Commission and Lokayukta, calling for an independent investigation into the appointment order issued on May 16, 2026 by the Health and Family Welfare Department.

The complaint states that the transfer of Dr. Dharitri Parmar and the appointment of Dr. Vadgama to the top post at New Civil Hospital — a major tertiary care centre serving South Gujarat — has triggered “serious administrative and ethical questions”.

“This is not merely a personnel matter; it directly affects public trust in the health system,” the representation states.

Allegations of Seniority Bypass

At the heart of the controversy is the claim that the appointment ignored 5–6 senior officers who were eligible for the position.

The complaint argues that appointments in major public hospitals must strictly follow seniority and service rules.

“If key administrative posts are filled without transparency, it risks weakening the credibility of the entire healthcare system,” the submission warns.

The complainant has demanded scrutiny of the seniority list, file notings and selection process to ensure compliance with service norms.

Political Links Raise Conduct Rule Questions

The representation further alleges that Dr. Vadgama has been publicly active in programs linked to the Bharatiya Janata Party, Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.

The complaint argues that public political participation by a government employee could violate conduct rules.

“Government servants are expected to maintain neutrality and avoid visible political alignment,” the document notes.

It also claims that social media posts and participation in political events may warrant departmental examination.

Concerns Over External Roles

Another key issue raised is Dr. Vadgama’s roles outside government service, including being a senator at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University and Health Committee Chairman at the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The complaint questions whether required government approvals were obtained and whether official influence may have been used for external organisations.

“This raises the question of conflict of interest and adherence to service regulations,” the representation states.

Key Demands in the Representation

The complaint calls for:

An independent probe into the appointment process

Investigation of seniority records and decision files

Examination of possible conduct rule violations

Inquiry into approvals for external positions

Suspension of the appointment until the probe concludes

Legal action if irregularities are confirmed

Public Trust at Stake

The controversy highlights growing public concern over transparency in healthcare governance. With New Civil Hospital playing a crucial role in treating lakhs of patients annually, the outcome of this demand for investigation could have far-reaching implications.