Himachal Pradesh Introduces User Charges for OPD Services, Faces Backlash

Controversial New Charges in Himachal Pradesh

Munish Sood
MANDI: The Himachal Pradesh government's recent decision to implement a Rs 10 fee for outpatient department (OPD) slips and to end free diagnostics for 133 medical tests in public hospitals has ignited significant political opposition and public concern.

The new policy will take effect tomorrow across all government healthcare facilities. Under this directive, commonly performed medical tests such as blood sugar, urine analysis, thyroid tests (TSH), lipid profiles, and X-rays, which were previously free, will now incur charges. Officials from the government have stated that this decision is aimed at enhancing the quality, infrastructure, and service delivery in public hospitals.

BJP Criticizes the Move as Anti-Poor

The opposition party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has vehemently condemned this initiative, labeling it a “betrayal of public trust.” Former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur remarked, “This government is systematically dismantling the welfare model in Himachal. They first increased bus fares in remote and tribal areas, and now they are charging the underprivileged even for hospital access. What will be next — fees for drinking water?” He added, “The Sukhu government came to power with promises of reform and relief, but has instead launched an economic assault on the common man.”

Senior BJP leader and former minister Ram Lal Markanda, who previously represented Lahaul-Spiti, also expressed strong disapproval: “This decision is unjust and unacceptable. It directly affects the poor, particularly in tribal and remote areas. I want to assure the people of Lahaul-Spiti — your brother, your son stands with you. We will soon organize a large protest rally against this irresponsible government.”

Public Outcry on Social Media

Online platforms have seen a surge of discontent regarding this policy change. Hashtags such as #RollbackHealthFee and #PublicHealthcareUnderAttack gained traction, with users comparing Himachal’s withdrawal of free services to other states where public healthcare remains fully subsidized.

Government Justifies the Charges

In an official statement, the Himachal Pradesh government defended its decision, explaining that the user fees are intended to bolster the activities of Rogi Kalyan Samitis (RKS), which are autonomous bodies responsible for maintaining and developing hospital infrastructure and services.

In a letter from K Jeet, Special Secretary (Health) to the Government of Himachal Pradesh, it was noted: “Following the recommendations of the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Rogi Kalyan Samitis, the competent authority has decided that, to enhance and improve services such as sanitation, hygiene, and maintenance of infrastructure and equipment, the respective RKS at various levels in the state are now authorized to impose user charges as necessary.”