Protests Surge Against Healthcare Shifts in Shimla

Hundreds of women protested outside Indira Gandhi Medical College, challenging the government's decision to relocate the Kamala Nehru Hospital's gynaecology OPD. They demanded the government provide modern facilities, lower fees, fill vacant positions, and maintain services at Kamala Nehru Hospital. Protesters threatened further action if demands are ignored.

On Thursday, the premises of the Indira Gandhi Medical College witnessed a surge of protests led by women from the All India Democratic Women's Association and Shimla Nagarik Sabha.

The demonstrators stood against the state government's resolution to transfer the gynaecology OPD from the Kamala Nehru Hospital to IGMC. In their plea, protesters demanded the maintenance and enhancement of facilities at Kamala Nehru Hospital, including modern reproductive technologies like IVF and robotic surgery.

This collective rebellion echoed a broader concern over increasing healthcare costs and alleged privatisation moves threatening public medical access. With a petition submitted to government officials, the protesters firmly warned of an extensive public movement should their demands remain unaddressed.