BJP leader locks SDH Banihal over doctor shortage; services restored after administration intervention

Banihal, April 21: In a dramatic protest against the shortage of doctors, BJP leader Mohammad Saleem Bhat on Tuesday locked the main gate of Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Banihal and staged a sit-in on the premises, briefly disrupting normal healthcare services.

Mohammad Saleem Bhat, known for his social work, alleged that the acute shortage of doctors at the hospital has been causing immense hardship to patients from Banihal, Ramsoo, and Gool sub-divisions. He said that despite repeatedly raising the issue of vacant specialist posts with the district administration, no concrete steps have been taken so far.

He further claimed that before resorting to the extreme step, he tried to contact the Chief Medical Officer through hospital authorities, but received no response.

Highlighting the staff shortage, Bhat said that one consultant gynaecologist was attached with the Directorate of Health Services Jammu last year following alleged misconduct, while three doctors have proceeded on study leave. He added that one doctor has been deputed to District Hospital Ramban, and none have been replaced so far. He also criticised the National Conference-led government, alleging failure to address public issues.

The situation was brought under control following the intervention of police and Sub-Divisional Magistrate Banihal, Mohammad Naseeb, who assured that the matter would be taken up with higher authorities. Following the assurance, the lock on the hospital gate was removed and normal services were gradually restored. 

Meanwhile, the hospital administration stated that three medical officers are currently on study leave for postgraduate courses, while one trained sonologist has been temporarily deputed to District Hospital Ramban in view of the radiologist’s leave there.

Despite the shortage, officials maintained that healthcare services are continuing, with available specialists—including a surgeon, orthopaedist, gynaecologist, and other medical officers—attending to patients.