Opposition should stop politicising doctors' private practice ban: Tripura CM

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, July 11, 2026

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Friday criticised opposition parties for opposing the government's decision to prohibit private practice by in-service doctors of Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) and Govind Ballabh Pant Hospital, saying the move has received support from the medical fraternity and is aimed at improving patient care.

Speaking at the inauguration of a private hospital in Agartala, Saha, who also holds the Health portfolio, said the government had consulted major doctors' associations before taking the decision. He said the administration has assured doctors that their legitimate concerns, particularly those relating to financial benefits, would be addressed.

According to the Chief Minister, the government has announced a 20 per cent Non-Practising Allowance (NPA) and is restructuring the benefit to ensure it also provides pensionary advantages. He added that other service-related benefits, including provisions linked to the 7th Pay Commission, would also be implemented to offset the impact of discontinuing private practice.

Saha said several senior doctors had conveyed their support for the decision, provided the promised reforms are implemented.

Targeting the opposition, he alleged that attempts were being made to politicise an issue that is intended to strengthen public healthcare. The government's priority, he said, is to ensure patients receive timely and better treatment in government hospitals.

more news...