Dr. Keshavulu Bashavathini. MD. psy. Osm. Chairman : Telangana intellectuals Association & Anti – Corruption Committee.
Ethically, the manner of Dr. Gangadhar’s removal appears questionable.
There were no corruption allegations or complaints against him personally. He was appointed for a 4-year term (in 2024), but was replaced suddenly in July 2025 without any public inquiry, explanation, or transparency. While the government may have had strategic reasons, from an ethical governance perspective, such a decision raises serious concerns.
🧠 1. Who is Dr. B.N. Gangadhar?
A renowned psychiatrist, former Director of NIMHANS, and respected academic.
Appointed Interim Chairman of the National Medical Commission (NMC) in Sept 2023 and confirmed for a full term in mid-2024.
Under his leadership:
Reforms were initiated in medical education ethics and the Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) model.
He actively worked on finalizing the NExT examination framework.
No allegations of corruption or misconduct have ever been made against him.
⚖️ 2. Context of Removal:
a. Backdrop of the CBI Scam:
In July 2025, a massive ₹1,300 crore medical college bribery scam was exposed by the CBI.
The scam involved:
NMC inspectors,
Health Ministry officials,
And college agents leaking data and accepting bribes.
Dr. Gangadhar was not named in any FIR or inquiry.
However, NMC as a system came under public and government scrutiny.
b. Government’s Action:
Possibly to restore public trust, the government replaced Dr. Gangadhar with Dr. Abhijat Sheth, a reputed cardiac surgeon and former President of NBE.
The real reason was not officially disclosed.
There was no public disciplinary action or performance-related criticism of Dr. Gangadhar.
📚 4. Impact on Medical Education System:
The sudden change may affect continuity of reforms under his leadership.
Could create confusion and demoralization among faculty and students.
Sends a message that even upright officers can be removed without explanation.
🧾 5. What Could Have Been Done Ethically?
If the government wanted a leadership change, it should have:
Issued a transparent press note explaining the decision,
Consulted stakeholders, including medical institutions,
Ensured honorary exit for Dr. Gangadhar.
That would have preserved both his personal dignity and institutional trust.
✅ My Conclusion:
Ethically, Dr. B.N. Gangadhar’s removal raises serious concerns due to:
Lack of transparency,
No documented wrongdoing,
No explanation from authorities,
And the premature end to a fixed-term appointment.
This move may undermine trust in governance, discourage honest professionals, and damage the morale of public service leadership.
