Srinagar, Aug. 13 -- The J&K government on Friday asked doctors and paramedical staff to restrain from private practice during duty hours in health institutions, and warned of "strict action" in case of any violation.

The government also sought monthly reports from HoDs with the direction not to allow any doctor borne on the establishment of the Health and Medical Education department to indulge in malpractices, resulting in the loss to the government exchequer and weakening of public services, news agency GNS reported.

"It has been observed that certain doctors borne on the establishment of the Health and Medical Education department are indulging in private practices during office hours as well as while they are on duty rosters in the...