Two years on, Malappuram Homoeo DMO who clapped for remarks against state govt censured

Malappuram: The state government has issued a censure against Malappuram District Medical Officer (Homoeo) Dr Hanna Yasmin Vayalil for clapping during a District Development Council (DDC) meeting held at the Collectorate on June 3, 2023. The action was taken after she was seen applauding when a member made remarks against the government, a move deemed inappropriate for a government official.

Following the incident, the Deputy Director of Homoeopathy recorded Dr Hanna’s statement and submitted it to the state government. In her explanation, Dr Hanna said she had driven 54 km to attend the meeting and was unable to pay close attention to the proceedings. She said that she clapped only because others did so, without any particular intent, and described the incident as a result of ignorance. She added that she had never faced any allegations during her years of service.

The Deputy Director’s inquiry report, prepared under the KCS (CC&A) Rules, 1960, noted that the act was not intentional but occurred due to physical and emotional exhaustion, and a lack of familiarity with the meeting’s procedures, as it was her first time attending such a session. The report also highlighted her unblemished service record and previous recognition for exemplary performance.

However, given that the incident occurred in a meeting attended by MLAs and the district collector, the government found the behaviour unacceptable for an officer in her position. Consequently, a formal warning has been issued to Dr Hanna.