Patients, Public Suffer as “So-Called” Association at GMC Rajouri Accused of Disrupting Hospital Functioning

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

RAJOURI, MAY 25:- Serious concern is mounting among patients and the general public over the repeated protests and pressure tactics allegedly being adopted by a newly formed association at Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri, which many believe is disturbing the peaceful and smooth functioning of the premier healthcare institution.
According to local residents and social activists, the association has been creating an atmosphere of confrontation inside the hospital premises instead of focusing on patient care and improving healthcare services. Allegations have surfaced that every second day, protests, threats of dharnas, and demonstrations are being used to divert the attention of higher authorities from alleged mismanagement and irregularities prevailing in different sections of the institution.

Critics alleged that threatening the GMC Principal, hospital administration, and district authorities with protests has become a tool to exert pressure and blackmail the administration. They said such activities are adversely affecting healthcare services and causing immense inconvenience to patients and attendants, many of whom travel from far-flung areas of Rajouri and Poonch districts for treatment.

Several social activists expressed resentment, stating that whenever any individual or organization raises questions regarding alleged mismanagement or illegal practices within the institution, the association immediately launches protests in an attempt to silence criticism rather than addressing genuine public grievances.

Locals termed the situation a “matter of grave concern” and appealed to the Health Minister of Jammu and Kashmir UT, Sakina Itoo, higher health authorities, and District Administration Rajouri to take strict notice of the issue. They demanded action against employees or groups allegedly involved in disturbing the peaceful atmosphere of GMC Rajouri and called for an impartial inquiry into allegations of mismanagement and irregular practices.

People have urged the administration to ensure that healthcare institutions remain dedicated to patient welfare and public service instead of becoming centres of unnecessary confrontation and pressure politics.
When contacted, GMC Principal Dr. Bhatia was approached through WhatsApp regarding the protest held at GMC Rajouri today by the association; however, no response was received from him till the filing of this report.