India, June 18 -- Taking a stern stance against prolonged absenteeism among government doctors, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday directed strict disciplinary action against medical professionals who have remained absent from duty and neglected patient care.

According to official sources, as many as 128 medical officers and dental surgeons posted across various government hospitals in the state have been absent for more than five years. Notices had earlier been issued through newspaper advertisements seeking information about their status, but many failed to respond.

Expressing serious concern, the Chief Minister instructed the health and Family Welfare Department to initiate disciplinary proceedings against the erri...