Gauhati High Court Orders Assam to Set Service Rules for Rural Medics

Guwahati: The Gauhati High Court ordered the Assam government to speed up the creation of service rules for rural health professionals. Justice Soumitra Saikia directed a state-appointed committee to build a distinct cadre with clear pay scales, health benefits, and promotion paths. The panel has 90 days to hand in their recommendations after getting the court order.

This push comes after candidates who finished the Diploma in Medicine and Rural Health Care course sued for better job security. These workers serve under the National Rural Health Mission in remote areas. The petitioners argued they deserve recognition for their training and the rights they earned under the Assam Rural Health Regulatory Authority Act of 2004.

The court ruled that changes in law cannot strip these workers of their existing status. The judge stated, "Their diplomas, training, professional experience and recognised status could not be withdrawn merely due to changes in legislation." This ensures the transition from Rural Health Practitioners to Community Health Professionals does not harm their employment rights. Once the committee finishes the report, the state government must review the findings and enact the new rules.