Shimla, April 12
The proposed shifting of Kamla Nehru Hospital (KNH) has erupted into a major political and public health flashpoint, with CPM state secretary and former Shimla Mayor Sanjay Chauhan demanding an immediate rollback, calling the move a “thoughtless and destructive plan” that threatens to dismantle a century-old institution.
The issue burst into the open after a Himbumail expose revealed the government’s move to shift the KNH to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), triggering sharp public reaction and putting the spotlight on what critics say is a poorly conceived decision.
In a strongly worded letter to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chauhan said the decision has already sparked widespread anger and must be withdrawn immediately in public interest.
Violates WHO norms, will choke IGMC
Chauhan warned that the move would violate guidelines of the World Health Organization for Maternal and Child Health (MCH) facilities. He pointed out that IGMC is already grappling with space constraints and overcrowding.
“Pushing hundreds of additional women patients daily into an already burdened campus will only worsen chaos and compromise care,” he said.
A 100-year lifeline under threat
Established in 1924 as Lady Reading Hospital, KNH remains the state’s premier dedicated mother and child hospital:
300–400 patients daily
300-bed capacity
Specialized services in obstetrics, gynaecology, prenatal and postnatal care
Affordable, largely free treatment
Calling it a “lifeline,” Chauhan warned that shifting services will hit women patients the hardest, especially those from remote areas.
Emotional connect, rising anger
“This is not just a hospital—it’s part of Shimla’s collective memory,” Chauhan wrote, adding that nearly every family in the city has a connection with KNH.
He also flagged growing public suspicion over alternate use of the prime land—an issue now fuelling anger on the ground.
Old proposal, repeated mistake
Chauhan reminded the government that similar attempts in the past were rolled back after public protests, questioning why a “rejected idea” is being revived.
“Complete modernization, don’t dismantle”
He highlighted that KNH is already undergoing phased modernization, including a ₹22 crore expansion with upgraded OPD, OT, and lab facilities, and a planned third phase with advanced infrastructure like an IVF centre.
“Strengthen what exists instead of dismantling it,” he urged.
Direct appeal to CM Sukhu
Appealing directly to the CM, Chauhan said, “You understand Shimla’s pulse. Ignoring this will hurt both healthcare delivery and public sentiment.”
With the controversy now out in the open following the Himbumail expose, the KNH row has turned into a defining test of the government’s intent—whether it prioritizes public healthcare or pushes ahead with what is increasingly being seen as a reckless decision.
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