Chandigarh
The Punjab Cabinet, headed by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, granted approval on Saturday to convert 3,842 temporary positions within the judicial wing of subordinate courts into permanent roles. This decision, made during a Council of Ministers meeting, addresses a longstanding issue wherein these judicial posts remained temporary for over two decades, necessitating annual approvals from the Department of Home Affairs and Justice, along with the Finance Department, for their continuation.
The move to convert these positions into permanent ones aims to streamline administrative procedures, eliminating the need for yearly renewals and ensuring greater operational efficiency within the judicial system. Furthermore, in a bid to expedite trials related to POCSO and rape cases, the Cabinet sanctioned the establishment of two fast-track special courts in Sangrur and Tarn Taran districts. Additionally, approval was granted to create 20 new positions, including two posts of Additional District and Sessions Judge, along with 18 supporting staff, to facilitate the functioning of these courts.
In the healthcare sector, the Cabinet approved the revival of 189 medical officer (general) positions and the creation of an additional 1,390 such posts to address the shortage of medical personnel. These vacancies will be filled through the Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot, bypassing the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC).
Moreover, the Cabinet endorsed the establishment of 20 new positions, encompassing medical officers, staff nurses, pharmacists, and other medical professionals, for the recently upgraded urban Community Health Centre in Gurdaspur.
Additionally, the Cabinet provided retrospective approval for the establishment of 829 Aam Aadmi Clinics (AAC), spanning both urban and rural areas, aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility for the populace.
