Doctors at the Rajendra Institute of Medical Science (RIMS) here in Jharkhand have been banned from simultaneously pursuing private practice.

However, some doctors at RIMS have refused to sign an affidavit that would stop them from private practice.

A 12-member committee, constituted by the state assembly, this month issued a directive banning private practice by RIMS doctors. The committee was headed by former health minister Dinesh Sarangi.

Doctors are required to file an affidavit saying they were not pursuing private practice. Private practice by doctors was banned to improve the condition of the institute and provide good medical facilities to patients.

The doctors will get additional 25 percent of their salary as Non Practicing Allowance (NPA).

Jagganth Prasad, who heads RIMS, said the matter of certain doctors refusing to sign the affidavit would be referred to the state chief secretary.

The committee has come out with advertisements in newspapers seeking information about any private practice by RIMS doctors so that action can be taken against them.