Emergency care at Night has collapsed; accuse the health department of shielding a corrupt nexus
Bandipora, July 30 (KNS): Amid an escalating healthcare crisis in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, residents have appealed to the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister, Health Minister, and Director of Health Services to reverse the transfer of three key doctors from the District Hospital Bandipora, citing a collapse in emergency care and rising patient referrals.
The residents seek the return of Dr Parvez Sajad, Dr Ishfaq, and Dr Muzaffar Ganie, who, according to locals, served the district with exceptional commitment and were often available even after duty hours for emergency cases as they were the local residents.
“These doctors were deeply familiar with the geography and needs of Bandipora. Even after their shifts, they would return to the hospital at night if required. Now, no doctor is available during night hours, and more patients are being referred to Srinagar,” said Abdul Hameed, a resident.
The locals alleged that while the Health Department chose to transfer committed doctors while paramedical staff with alleged vested interests were left untouched.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel“We had requested the administration to act against some paramedics who have built deep ties with private labs, medicine shops, and suppliers. But instead, the doctors who resisted these unethical practices were transferred,” another resident claimed.
They alleged that a medical mafia—interested in minting money through expensive prescriptions and commissions—had influenced the transfers of the doctors who challenged their dominance.
“These doctors stood against corruption and exploitation. Their absence has emboldened those who view patients as profit-making opportunities. We believe their transfer was orchestrated by vested interests who felt threatened,” the locals told KNS.
The residents urged the administration to act immediately, citing the increasing number of referrals, poor night-time coverage, and growing mistrust among patients.
“This is not just about transfers; it’s about saving lives. The government must review its decision and bring back doctors who truly served the people,” they added.(KNS)