Bhopal, April 4 – A group of members from the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) staged a protest on Saturday by putting up posters outside the offices of Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla, the Directorate of Health Services (Ayushman), and the Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) in Bhopal.
One such poster, placed outside the residence of Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla – who also holds the portfolios of Health and Medical Education – carried a satirical message.
Through these posters, NSUI members attempted to highlight alleged irregularities in the healthcare system, warning that unless strict action is taken, public health could be put at risk.
They raised concerns over alleged patronage to unauthorized or fraudulent hospitals operating in the city.
The posters put up outside Shukla’s office-cum-residence were later removed by security personnel.
NSUI state vice-president Ravi Parmar, who along with other members put up the posters at different locations, alleged that several hospitals in the city are flouting norms by falsely listing doctors and staff on paper.
He said that despite repeated complaints and protests, no effective action has been taken by CMHO Dr Manish Sharma.
“This inaction suggests that a major syndicate of fraudulent hospitals is operating in the capital,” Parmar said.
He added that patients from rural areas and smaller towns come to Bhopal with expectations of proper medical care, but are instead exploited by such hospitals for financial gain.
Parmar also warned of a larger protest outside Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla’s residence in the coming days if action is not taken.
Responding to the allegations, CMHO Dr Manish Sharma termed them baseless and politically motivated.
“Regular inspections are being conducted, and action against fraudulent hospitals is under way. In several instances, complaints have also been filed in court,” he said, adding that putting up such posters is misleading and inappropriate.