Srinagar : The Bone and Joint Hospital in Srinagar is under fire after multiple patients and their families accused the administration of favoritism and malpractice, alleging that MRI services at the hospital are being selectively offered to influential individuals, while ordinary patients are diverted to a nearby private diagnostic centre.
According to patient accounts gathered by Kashmir News Trust, the hospital’s MRI machine is frequently cited as non-functional or overbooked, but VIPs and well-connected individuals are given immediate access. This has triggered suspicions of a nexus between hospital staff and the private facility.
“This is a public hospital, and yet MRI tests are hardly being done here. Whenever we ask, they say the machine is busy or not working. But VIPs get scans done within hours,” said a patient from North Kashmir.
Another attendant, who brought an injured labourer from Pulwama, echoed similar concerns:
“As soon as we mentioned MRI at registration, we were casually advised to go to a private centre. It felt like a rehearsed routine — no attempt was made to even check the availability on-site.”
Pattern of Exploitation?
Patients claim they are routinely nudged toward the same private centre, suggesting a coordinated effort to drive business there. Many allege that this practice has become normalized, exploiting poor and rural patients who trust public hospitals for affordable treatment.
A senior citizen, accompanying his daughter for orthopedic care, called the alleged malpractice “blatant exploitation”:
“This is a government-run institution, meant for the public. If it acts as a feeder for private businesses, what hope is left for poor patients?”
Call for Government Intervention
The Jammu and Kashmir Health Minister has been urged to take urgent note of the situation. Patients and activists are demanding:
- A transparent inquiry into the alleged MRI referrals.
- Immediate audit of MRI machine usage at the hospital.
- Action against any unethical collusion with private facilities.
- Restoration of public trust through regular functioning of in-house MRI services.
Systemic Concerns
This isn’t the first time public hospitals have been accused of pushing patients toward private setups. The broader issue highlights the need for:
- Stricter oversight on diagnostic services in public health institutions.
- Clear guidelines on referral protocols.
- Better infrastructure maintenance to ensure that essential equipment like MRI machines remain functional and accessible.
