Sheikh Nadeem
Anger and frustration spilled onto the streets of Kokernag as residents staged a protest against the administration over inadequate healthcare facilities and alleged unprofessional conduct by a doctor at the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Kokernag.
The protesters, accusing the Block Medical Officer (BMO) Larnoo and Dr. Iftikar Ahmad of negligence and misbehavior, demanded urgent intervention to address their grievances.
The protest was triggered by allegations made by a patient, Suhaib Hussain Khan, who claimed that Dr. Ahmad used foul language during a medical consultation.
This incident highlighted the long-standing dissatisfaction of Kokernag residents with the state of healthcare services in the area.
Protesters, speaking to The Kashmiriyat, pointed out the lack of essential infrastructure, insufficient medical staff, and poor equipment at SDH Kokernag, which they said has severely impacted the quality of care.
“We cannot tolerate this anymore. Not only are the facilities inadequate, but patients are also being subjected to disrespectful behavior. We demand action against the doctor and immediate improvement of the hospital’s conditions,” said one of the protesters.
In response to the allegations, BMO Larnoo announced the formation of an inquiry committee to investigate the matter.
“A detailed report will be submitted within two days. If the allegations against Dr. Iftikar Ahmad are found to be true, strict action will be taken,” the BMO assured.
The protesters appealed to the newly elected government to prioritize healthcare reforms in Kokernag and address their demands for better facilities, professional conduct by medical staff, and accountability.
“We hope the administration will take these concerns seriously and ensure that SDH Kokernag provides the quality care it was meant to deliver,” said another resident.