Shimla, April 12, 2026:
A fresh controversy has erupted in Himachal Pradesh’s healthcare sector after the state government’s reported decision to shift the Gynaecology OPD of Kamla Nehru Hospital (KNH), Shimla, to the Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) complex drew sharp criticism from the CPI(M).
In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, CPI(M) Himachal Pradesh state secretary Sanjay Chauhan urged the government to immediately roll back the decision, calling it “anti-public” and detrimental to maternal healthcare services in the state.
Chauhan stated that the move has triggered widespread public anger and opposition, with concerns that shifting the OPD would violate established guidelines for Maternal and Child Health (MCH) institutions laid down by national authorities and the World Health Organization (WHO). He argued that IGMC is already grappling with space constraints and overcrowding, and any additional burden would further inconvenience patients.
Highlighting the legacy of Kamla Nehru Hospital—formerly known as Lady Reading Hospital—Chauhan noted that the facility, established in 1924, has evolved into the state’s premier maternal and child healthcare centre. He said the hospital caters to 300–400 women daily and offers around 300 beds, providing affordable and largely free treatment to patients from across Himachal Pradesh.
The CPI(M) leader also pointed out that significant investments have been made over the years to modernise the hospital. A new building constructed at a cost of ₹22 crore in 2013 has already enhanced facilities, including OPD services, emergency operation theatres and laboratories. Plans for a third phase of expansion—including advanced infrastructure such as IVF centres and modern wards—are also in place.
Chauhan expressed concern over reports suggesting that the existing KNH campus may be repurposed for constructing a new building for MLAs, alleging that such a move would disregard public sentiment and healthcare priorities.
Recalling that similar proposals in the past were withdrawn following public protests, he urged the Chief Minister to respect the emotional and functional significance of the hospital. “Any decision to relocate the hospital will not only impact healthcare services for women but also hurt the sentiments of Shimla residents, many of whom share a deep emotional connection with the institution,” he said.
The CPI(M) has demanded that the government continue OPD services at Kamla Nehru Hospital and expedite the third phase of its modernisation to strengthen maternal healthcare infrastructure in the state.
