Himachal Pradesh News
Women Protest Overnight in Shimla Against Shift of Gynaecology OPD from Kamla Nehru Hospital
Tensions escalated in Shimla as women activists staged a 24-hour protest against the relocation of the gynaecology OPD from the historic Kamla Nehru Hospital to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) and Hospital. The protest, led by the All India Democratic Women Association (AIDWA), reflects growing concerns over women’s healthcare access in the region.
Tensions escalated in Shimla as women activists staged a 24-hour protest against the relocation of the gynaecology OPD from the historic Kamla Nehru Hospital to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) and Hospital. The protest, led by the All India Democratic Women Association (AIDWA), reflects growing concerns over women’s healthcare access in the region.
The demonstration began on Wednesday, with AIDWA members sitting outside Kamla Nehru Hospital and continuing their protest overnight. The organization has demanded an immediate rollback of the government’s decision, warning of larger agitations if their concerns are ignored.
AIDWA State President Falma Chauhan strongly criticized the move, calling it “hasty and insensitive.” She emphasized that Kamla Nehru Hospital has been serving women for over a century and has built trust among patients. “Separating gynaecology from obstetrics is not practical. These services are interconnected and have always functioned together under one roof,” she said.
The protesters also challenged the government’s claim that outdated equipment was the reason behind the shift. According to Chauhan, the necessary machines are already available at the hospital, but administrative issues such as licensing have hindered their use. “If the government cannot improve facilities, it should at least not take away what already exists,” she added.
The issue has struck a chord with many local women, who fear that shifting the OPD could make access to essential healthcare more difficult, especially for those from nearby areas who rely on Kamla Nehru Hospital.
AIDWA has warned that if the decision is not reversed, the protest will intensify. Plans are already in place for a large-scale demonstration outside IGMC on April 30, followed by further protests near the state Secretariat.
As the situation unfolds, the protest highlights a larger debate around healthcare infrastructure and accessibility, particularly for women in hill regions where proximity to medical services can be critical.
