A dramatic protest took place on Tuesday at Sub-District Hospital Banihal when BJP leader Mohammad Saleem Bhat locked the hospital’s main gate and staged a sit-in protest over the shortage of doctors.
The protest briefly affected normal healthcare services at the hospital. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Mohammad Saleem Bhat, who is known for social work in the area, said the serious shortage of doctors has created major problems for patients from Banihal, Ramsoo, and Gool.
He claimed that vacant specialist posts had been raised many times with the district administration, but no proper action had been taken.
Bhat also said he tried to contact the Chief Medical Officer through hospital officials before starting the protest, but received no response.
Claims Over Staff Shortage
According to Bhat, one consultant gynaecologist was attached with the Directorate of Health Services Jammu last year after alleged misconduct.
He added that three doctors are currently on study leave, while another doctor has been deputed to District Hospital Ramban.
He said no replacements have been provided so far and criticised the National Conference-led government for failing to solve public issues.
Administration Response
The protest ended after police and Sub-Divisional Magistrate Banihal Mohammad Naseeb intervened.
He assured the protester that the issue would be raised with higher authorities.
After the assurance, the hospital gate was reopened and normal services gradually resumed.
Hospital Clarification
Hospital authorities said three medical officers are on study leave for postgraduate courses.
They also said one trained sonologist has been temporarily sent to District Hospital Ramban because the radiologist there is on leave.
Officials added that healthcare services are still continuing with available specialists, including a surgeon, orthopaedist, gynaecologist, and other doctors treating patients.
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