Reasi, Kishtwar residents protest over lack of basic services, slam IIOJK authorities’ apathy
Jammu: Residents in Reasi town staged a strong protest to highlight the severe shortage of doctors and medical staff at the District Hospital Reasi, only major healthcare facility in the district. The demonstration has once again exposed the hollow claims of the Modi government’s so-called progress narrative in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, particularly after abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the protesters, led by a large group of youth, emphasized that that despite being the sole hospital serving a vast population, several critical specialist positions remain vacant. They pointed out that no anesthetist, dermatologist, and nephrologist is available at the hospital, which forces patients to travel long distances to Jammu or other districts for treatment.
Karandeep, a youth leader who spearheaded the protest, called on the authorities to urgently address the growing healthcare crisis. He stressed the need for immediate recruitment to fill vacant posts, regular availability of doctors, and proper functioning of critical care units at the hospital.
The protesters made it clear that they would continue their agitation daily until their demands are met, warning that the government’s indifference to public health could not go unchecked.
In another demonstration, locals in the outskirts of Kishtwar town blocked vehicular traffic to protest the ongoing water supply crisis that has lasted for over a month and a half. Despite repeated pleas and delegations to the administration, the residents said no action had been taken to resolve the issue. The protesters expressed their frustration, stating that the authorities were testing the limits of public patience and warned of escalating protests if their demands for immediate action were not met.
