A surprise visit to Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) by Health Minister Vishwajit Rane has escalated into a statewide controversy after a video of him berating the hospital’s Chief Medical Officer went viral. Facing backlash from the medical community and political opponents, the minister has now publicly apologised.

The confrontation took place on June 7 when Minister Rane walked into GMCH unannounced and reprimanded CMO Dr. Rudresh Kuttikar for allegedly mistreating patients. In a now widely shared video, Rane can be seen angrily telling the senior doctor, “You learn to control your tongue, you are a doctor. I generally don’t lose my cool, but you have to behave yourself. However loaded, you have to behave properly with patients.”

Although Rane announced the CMO’s suspension on the spot, no official order was issued. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant later intervened, assuring the public that due process would be followed and confirmed that Dr. Kuttikar would not be suspended. “I want to assure the people of Goa that Dr Rudresh Kuttikar will not be suspended,” Sawant said, following a review of the incident.

Criticism mounted quickly. The Indian Medical Association’s Goa branch denounced Rane’s actions, describing them as disrespectful and demanding the immediate cancellation of the suspension announcement. Medical professionals and resident doctors even held protests, accusing the minister of humiliating one of their own.

Rane Issues Apology Statement

Under increasing pressure, Rane issued a statement expressing regret for how he handled the situation. Speaking to India Today TV, he said, “I agree that it was not appropriate in terms of the way I reacted. I could have called him and had a word with him separately. I would once again like to apologise to the doctor and his family if I have hurt his sentiments.”

Rane further clarified that his intent was to uphold discipline, not to target individuals. In an interview with CNN-News18, he stated, “I tendered my apology to the concerned doctor for my behaviour, but I cannot tolerate indiscipline in healthcare services.” He also highlighted the challenges of managing medical emergencies, saying, “I often receive calls directly from citizens of Goa at any time of the day regarding medical emergencies.”

Despite the apology, political opposition parties, including Congress, AAP, and Revolutionary Goans Party, slammed Rane for what they called an “arrogant display of authority.”

Rane defended his record, asserting that his intervention was motivated by concern for patient care. “My mother herself is a cancer patient, so I know what they go through. I don’t want to politicise this,” he added.

He also dismissed speculation of internal tension between him and the Chief Minister. “There are no differences between me and CM Sawant. In the first place, I had not issued any formal written suspension order. I was angry because of the indiscipline,” Rane explained.

Local reactions were mixed. Some citizens appreciated the minister’s unfiltered response, citing poor treatment at GMC. Others found his approach inappropriate. In response, Rane said, “My actions may invite criticism or praise, but I don’t work for either.”

Reaffirming his goals, Rane stated his ambition to elevate GMC into one of India’s leading medical institutions. “If doctors want to attend international conferences or present papers abroad, I don’t wait for government approvals — I’ve supported them personally,” he said. “Just like a parent scolds their child when they misbehave, I did the same—and I will continue to do so.”

As calls for a balanced and respectful healthcare environment grow, the controversy underscores the tension between administrative accountability and professional dignity in India’s medical system.