Protest at Civil Hospital Highlights Public Health Issues in Jind

A recent protest at the civil hospital in Jind, organized by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), has brought to light significant public health concerns. Demonstrators highlighted the lack of basic facilities, including unclean toilets and a shortage of medical staff. With many citizens forced to seek expensive private healthcare, the protestors called for urgent reforms in the public health system. This article delves into the issues raised during the protest and the implications for healthcare in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 18, 2025, 04:15 IST

Public Health Concerns Spark Protest

In Jind, a sit-in protest was organized at the civil hospital on Monday by the Communist Party of India (Marxist) to address pressing public health issues. The demonstration was led by district committee member Rajesh Kumar and coordinated by secretary Sandeep Jajwan. Following the protest, a memorandum outlining the public grievances was submitted to the acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Paleram Kataria. Ramesh Chandra, while addressing the crowd, highlighted the dire state of healthcare facilities in the hospital.

Lack of Basic Facilities in Hospital

The protestors pointed out that the hospital's toilets are in a deplorable condition, lacking cleanliness, doors, and even a water supply. Kapoor Singh, the district secretary, emphasized that the government is deliberately neglecting public health services across the state. He noted that many positions for doctors and paramedical staff remain unfilled in civil hospitals, with Jind district operating without a civil surgeon for several months. Currently, there are 30 vacant doctor positions at the Jind civil hospital, alongside a significant shortage of specialist doctors.

Private Healthcare Costs Burden Citizens

Additionally, there are numerous vacancies for ward attendants, cleaning staff, and other support personnel. Although the state government claims to provide free treatment for pregnant women, there are no doctors available to operate ultrasound machines in any civil hospital in Jind. Consequently, patients are forced to seek care at private hospitals, where the outpatient fees are often unaffordable for the average citizen.

Private practitioners are also accused of conducting unnecessary tests, further straining the financial resources of the public. Sandeep criticized the government's promotion of the Ayushman card for free treatment, arguing that it allows private hospitals to exploit public funds. He suggested that if these funds were redirected to government health services, comprehensive free healthcare could be provided to all citizens.

Voices from the Protest

The protest featured speeches from various leaders, including Prakash Chandra, Randhir Singh, Azad Panchal, Mangatram Shastri, and Baru Ram, who all echoed the call for improved healthcare services.