Baramulla, April 7– Tensions flared at Pattan Trauma Hospital on Monday as a massive protest broke out over the alleged shortage of doctors in the hospital’s Outpatient Department (OPD). With nearly 1,500 patients seeking treatment, only one doctor was reportedly available to attend to them, sparking anger and frustration among the public.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as patients and their attendants waited for hours without receiving medical attention. Many were seen raising slogans against the hospital administration, accusing them of gross negligence and mismanagement.
Upon inquiry, the Block Medical Officer (BMO) of Pattan acknowledged the issue, confirming that an additional doctor had been deployed to the OPD in response to the public outcry. He further stated that one doctor assigned to the OPD was absent without prior notice, and an explanation has been sought regarding their nonattendance.
The BMO admitted there is a general shortage of doctors at the facility but assured the public that steps are being taken to manage the crisis and ensure that patients receive timely care.
Despite these assurances, locals remain unconvinced. They raised serious concerns about the hospital’s administration, pointing out that the Pattan Trauma Hospital reportedly has 20 to 22 doctors posted. “If so many doctors are posted here, why was only one present in the OPD today? Where are the rest?” questioned a local resident.
The protestors are now demanding a transparent investigation into the matter and strict action against those responsible for the apparent mismanagement, which left hundreds of patients in distress.
