West Bengal minister orders probe after HIV-positive health worker sacked

The Story in Brief

West Bengal Health Minister Dr Shashwat Mukherjee has ordered an inquiry into allegations that a contractual healthcare worker at Ghatal Sub-Divisional Hospital in West Midnapore was dismissed because he is HIV-positive. The worker claims he was stopped from reporting for duty in January 2026 after hospital authorities learned of his status, despite having a medical fitness certificate. He says he has worked there since 1996, first as a cleaner and later delivering medicines, but received only Rs 600 a month between 2022 and 2025.

The hospital superintendent denies the worker was employed since 1996, stating he worked on a wage basis only from 2016-17. The superintendent also disputes that HIV status was the reason for his removal, claiming the worker stopped coming on his own. The worker has submitted written complaints to the chief minister and the health department. Dr Mukherjee said discrimination against HIV-positive people will not be tolerated and promised action if the allegations are proved.