Bajali: The Assam Jatiyabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) on Friday expressed concern over Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s recent announcement regarding the establishment of a medical college in Bajali, pointing to existing gaps in the region’s healthcare infrastructure.
The organisation stressed that the Swahid Madan Rauta Sub-Divisional Civil Hospital should first be upgraded to a full-fledged district hospital to ensure improved healthcare facilities for residents.
Reacting to the statement made during an election campaign, AJYCP noted that Bajali Civil Hospital currently lacks essential critical care facilities, including an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and CT scan services. It suggested that strengthening existing healthcare infrastructure should be prioritised before undertaking large-scale projects like a medical college.
“We welcome the proposal for a medical college in Bajali. However, Bajali Civil Hospital does not even have an ICU. Patients still have to travel to other districts for critical treatment. Upgrading the existing hospital and ensuring basic services should come first,” said AJYCP General Secretary Bijan Bayan.
The organisation described the proposal as “premature” and raised questions about its feasibility without adequate infrastructure, manpower, and proper planning. It also pointed out that such announcements are often made during election periods, emphasising the importance of addressing immediate healthcare needs alongside long-term development goals.
The remarks came after the Chief Minister, while campaigning for NDA candidates in Bajali, stated that a medical college would be set up in the district if the alliance returns to power.
The announcement has sparked a broader discussion on the current state of healthcare facilities in the region.
As the debate continues, attention remains on whether immediate healthcare needs in Bajali will be addressed alongside future development initiatives.