Jagatsinghpur: In a distinctive display of discontent, residents of Jagatsinghpur in Odisha took to the streets on Saturday, employing a symbolic act of protest to highlight their grievances against what they perceive as government apathy towards their demand for a medical college in the district.
Under the banner of Swasthya Surakshya Sangathan, locals embarked on the Guhariya Jatra, or appeal journey, commencing from Thana Chhaka and culminating at the District Collector’s office. Along the route, protestors kneeled and laid down on the road, symbolizing their plea to the government to address their longstanding demand for a medical college.
Central to their protest is the contention that the government has neglected their district’s urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure. The decision to relocate the polyclinic from Jagatsinghpur to Cuttack has further fueled their frustration, with locals asserting that the move exacerbates the existing healthcare challenges faced by the district’s populace.
“Jagatsinghpur’s population has surpassed 14 lakh, warranting the establishment of a government medical college as per government guidelines. With no significant mineral resources, the district relies heavily on agriculture, leaving its residents financially disadvantaged,” remarked one agitated protestor in conversation with the media.
Residents bemoaned the inadequacies of the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH), emphasizing its inability to meet the healthcare needs of the community even after 31 years since the district’s formation. Shortages of medical personnel and essential facilities persist, exacerbating the burden on residents who are compelled to seek critical medical care in Cuttack, incurring additional financial strain.
Despite nearly a year of persistent protests, locals lamented the government’s apparent disregard for their demands, stressing that the call for a medical college enjoys widespread support across the district’s populace, transcending political affiliations.
“We kneel and sleep on the road today, akin to seeking divine intervention in a temple, fervently appealing to the government to heed our plea,” expressed another protester, underscoring the collective hope that their peaceful demonstration would compel authorities to act in the interest of public welfare.
Jagatsinghpur’s historical association with Cuttack, prior to its autonomy in 1993, underscores the district’s longstanding quest for equitable access to essential services, including healthcare, reflecting the enduring struggle of its residents for a better quality of life.
