- Andhra Pradesh insists on repatriation of Dr. Srinivasulu
- DoPT rejects plea to stay in Telangana
Article Today, Hyderabad:
The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions (DoPT) has rejected the plea of Dr. Srinivasulu, Director of MNJ Cancer Institute, to continue in Telangana. The department confirmed that his allocation to Andhra Pradesh under the 2017 orders was valid and required no revision. This decision has dealt a major blow to his hopes of remaining in Hyderabad.
Andhra Pradesh Seeks His Return
Following the DoPT’s directive on August 19, the Andhra Pradesh government wrote to the Telangana Health Department the next day. It asked Telangana to relieve Dr. Srinivasulu immediately and send him back. The letter also instructed officials to obtain his acknowledgment of the repatriation orders and forward it for record.
Earlier Reports Triggered Action
The controversy over Dr. Srinivasulu’s continuation had been widely reported by digital dailies Sahanam Vande https://sahanamvande.com/?p=6557 and Article Today https://articletoday.in/mnj-cancer-institute-directors-continuation-sparks-row/ on August 14. The reports highlighted irregularities in his posting, describing it as a “retirement row” and a “violation of norms.” Barely five days later, the DoPT reaffirmed that the 2017 allocation to Andhra Pradesh was final.
States’ Positions Made Clear
The DoPT had earlier sought the views of both states. Telangana clarified that it had no shortage of surgical oncology professors and saw no reason to alter the allocation. Andhra Pradesh, on the other hand, insisted that it needed Dr. Srinivasulu’s services since several key posts in oncology were vacant. Taking both positions into account, the DoPT rejected his request.
Question Over His Continuation
Dr. Srinivasulu had already reached the age of superannuation last year under Andhra Pradesh service rules. However, he continued in Telangana citing the pending dispute over his cadre allocation. Critics questioned how he remained in service as MNJ Director despite retirement norms. Both states have faced flak for failing to enforce rules.
Final Exit Likely
With the latest orders, Dr. Srinivasulu will now have to join Andhra Pradesh and abide by its service regulations. The decision appears to have closed a long-running dispute since bifurcation. Yet, questions remain on why Telangana allowed him to continue even after August 20, when the DoPT order and Andhra Pradesh’s letter had already been issued.
Succession Debate Begins
Attention has now shifted to who will succeed him as Director of MNJ Cancer Institute. The Telangana government has not yet announced a replacement. Health officials indicated that a decision would be taken shortly in line with state requirements.
