Shimla, April 11
The Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur on Saturday accused the state government of imposing charges on healthcare services, alleging that women are now being made to pay for surgeries in government hospitals.
In a statement issued from Shimla on the occasion of National Safe Motherhood Day, Thakur said the day is observed to honour Kasturba Gandhi and to promote maternal health, reduce mortality rates, and ensure the safety of mothers and newborns across the country.
Criticising the state government, he alleged that despite welfare commitments, a fee of ₹4,700 has been imposed for major surgeries and other services at Kamla Nehru Hospital. “A welfare state is meant to provide support, not impose charges at every step,” he said.
He further questioned the inclusion of additional costs under the Himcare scheme, stating that services which were earlier free—such as surgery, consultation, anaesthesia, blood transfusion, oxygen, and even basic care—are now being charged. He alleged that the government is moving towards the gradual closure of the Himcare scheme.
Thakur also claimed that payments to suppliers under Himcare have been delayed, worsening the situation, and said the new fee structure would place an additional burden on the public. He criticised the government for coming to power on the promise of financial support schemes, while allegedly increasing healthcare costs.
Highlighting previous initiatives, he said earlier governments, including the BJP regime, had strengthened healthcare access for women and children through schemes like Himcare. He added that several central government programmes—including Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, Janani Suraksha Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, and the National Health Mission—continue to support maternal and child healthcare.
Thakur Attends Cultural Programme ‘Bhadri’ in Chandigarh
Jairam Thakur also attended the cultural programme ‘Bhadri’ organised by the Chandigarh Hatti Samiti at the Law Auditorium of Panjab University.
Appreciating the initiative, he said preserving the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Himachal Pradesh is a collective responsibility. He noted that such events help people living outside the state stay connected to their roots.
He added that cultural programmes like ‘Bhadri’ play an important role in strengthening social unity and passing on traditions to the younger generation.
Thakur congratulated the organisers for the successful event and encouraged them to continue hosting such programmes in the future.
