The directorate of health services in Goa has come under fire for extending the employment of two chief medical officers — Dr Kalpana Mahatme and Dr Rajendra Borkar — beyond their retirement age. Former government officials have criticized the move, stating that it violates high court directives and hinders promotion opportunities for other employees.
Details of the Extensions
Dr Mahatme was given a one-year service extension after superannuation at age 62, which will end on July 31. Dr Borkar's extension will conclude on September 30. Reports suggest that attempts are being made to further prolong their tenures.
Criticism from Former Officials
John Nazareth, president of the former government employees' association and Congress' St Cruz block president, has cited court rulings to urge the department to avoid such extensions. He stated that officers in the hierarchy are being denied their right to promotion, higher pay, and allowances. Additionally, educated unemployed youth are losing job opportunities due to the resultant vacancies being filled by extensions.
In an October 2025 order, the high court explicitly held that the state government should avoid extending services and instead continue to infuse young blood into government posts. Nazareth emphasized that the current practice contradicts this directive.
