Health Deptt should punish doctors for violating Govt orders: MLA Karnah

Kupwara, Aug 22: MLA Karnah Javid Mirchal has voiced strong displeasure over the “indifferent attitude” of the Health Department, alleging that directives issued by the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir (DHSK) are not being implemented on the ground.

“Orders are issued by the DHSK, but doctors are not joining their posts. I have sent reminders, and showcause notices have been issued, yet this does not solve Karnah’s problems where people are suffering badly,” the MLA said.

While talking to Greater Kashmir on phone he flagged an acute shortage of paramedical staff, noting that employees earlier deputed under the National Health Mission (NHM) had been attached to the other parts in the district. “The situation is very unfortunate,” he remarked.

According to the legislator, Karnah has no gynaecologist, anaesthetist, surgeon, orthopaedician, or paediatrician. “Only MBBS doctors under the NHM are deployed. Most delivery cases are referred outside, and even minor surgical procedures are not done locally. Civil society is now planning to protest against the Health Department’s indolent approach,” he warned.

The MLA alleged that official reports sent to higher authorities falsely portray “everything is fine,” while the ground reality remains grim. He said the NTPHC at Chokibal is “completely defunct,” and facilities at NTPHC Teethwal and PHC Cheterkote remain inadequate