MLA Kupwara calls for ban on private practice by Govt doctors

Kupwara, Mar 15: Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kupwara Mir Muhammad Fayaz Saturday called for an outright ban on private practice by government doctors, arguing that the practice was undermining public healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir.

In the ongoing assembly session, Mir alleged that many government doctors neglect their hospital duties, spending limited hours in public facilities and shifting focus to private clinics where financial incentives take precedence over patient care.

“The public healthcare system is being compromised for personal profit,” he said.

The lawmaker also criticised the frequent transfer requests by doctors posted in Kupwara, claiming that some exploit security concerns to secure postings in Srinagar and other urban centres.

He said that this had left rural districts like Kupwara severely understaffed, forcing residents to travel long distances for medical attention.

Mir urged authorities to implement stricter policies, ensuring that government doctors remain dedicated to their roles, particularly in remote areas where healthcare access is already fragile. “Without immediate action, the situation will only worsen,” he said.

Mir’s remarks have reignited a debate on medical ethics and healthcare policy in J&K, increasing pressure on the Health Department to address growing concerns about accountability in the public health sector.