The Central government’s decision to rename health centers as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs has sparked controversy in Ladakh Union Territory, facing opposition from influential Buddhist organizations and elected representatives.
Initiated by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in November 2023, the move involves rebranding Ayushman Bharat – Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs) as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs with the tagline Arogyam Parmam Dhanam.
Despite the ministry’s directive and allocated funds for implementation by December 31, 2023, the decision has encountered significant resistance in Ladakh.
The Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) strongly objects, deeming it an affront to the people’s sentiments in the Union Territory.
In a letter to the chief executive councillors of Leh Hill Councils, LBA President Chering Dorjey Lakrook expressed deep concern, terming the order “unfortunate and tantamount to playing with the sentiments of the people of Ladakh.”
Lakrook urged elected bodies to intervene and rescind the decision, emphasizing the unconstitutionality and unacceptability of using religious names in government departments in a secular country.
The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council-Leh councillors also voiced their disapproval, urging immediate action to repeal the order due to potential hindrance to universal accessibility of health centers.
They requested the Chief Executive Councilors of Leh and Kargil to take the matter to the Hon’ble Lt Governor for considering repealing the order, keeping in mind the religious and cultural sentiments of Ladakh residents.