Memorandum Submitted to Governor Against Hospital Relocation and Fee Hike
In a significant political and healthcare development, leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have strongly opposed the proposed relocation of gynaecology services from Kamla Nehru Hospital to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) in Shimla, warning of serious implications for maternal and neonatal healthcare.
Delegation Meets Governor Over ‘Anti-People’ Decisions
A BJP delegation met Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta at Raj Bhavan on Monday, submitting a detailed memorandum against what they termed as “anti-people and impractical” decisions by the state government.
The delegation included key party leaders such as Sanjeev Katwal, Karan Nanda, Kamal Sood, Rama Thakur, and Pyar Singh Kanwar.
Concerns Over Impact on Maternal and Neonatal Care
The BJP leaders raised serious concerns that shifting services from Kamla Nehru Hospital—a dedicated women and children’s healthcare facility with nearly a century-long legacy—could disrupt critical maternal and neonatal services.
They argued that IGMC is already functioning beyond its capacity, and accommodating an additional 300-bed specialised unit could strain infrastructure and compromise patient safety.
Allegations of ‘Silent Shifting’ Without Proper Planning
The party accused the state government of executing the move through a “silent shifting” process, allegedly without formal notification or adequate planning.
The memorandum also highlighted that over ₹20 crore in public funds had been invested in upgrading Kamla Nehru Hospital, raising concerns that the facility could become underutilized or repurposed without transparency.
Demand for Transparency and Inquiry
BJP leaders questioned the possible alternative use of the hospital land and demanded a transparent inquiry into the decision-making process. They urged authorities to maintain existing services at Kamla Nehru Hospital in the interest of public health.
Opposition to Steep Hike in Shimla Road Pass Fees
Apart from healthcare concerns, the delegation also objected to a proposed increase in pass fees for restricted roads in Shimla. According to the BJP, the revision would raise the processing fee from ₹100 to ₹500 and the pass fee from ₹2,000 to ₹10,000.
The party termed the move “arbitrary and revenue-driven,” stating that it would impose a heavy financial burden on residents, traders, and employees.
Criticism of Strict Penal Provisions
The BJP further criticized the inclusion of stringent penalties, including heavy fines and possible imprisonment, calling them disproportionate and against democratic norms.
Warning of Intensified Agitation
The delegation urged the Governor to intervene and direct the state government to roll back both decisions. It also warned of intensified protests if the demands are not addressed.
