BARAMULLA, NOV 10: A stark contrast between claimed healthcare achievements and ground-level realities has emerged at Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla, where a lift failure forced patient attendants to carry individuals on stretchers and in wheelchairs up the stairs.
A video obtained by Kashmir Convener depicts the difficult scene, highlighting the challenges faced by patients and raising serious questions about the basic facilities at one of north Kashmir’s key healthcare institutions.
The incident occurs amid frequent official assertions that the institution has achieved a high standard in healthcare delivery. However, persistent infrastructural issues present a different story, where citizens in the 21st century are deprived of fundamental medical amenities.
“This is a common issue in this hospital,” said Saja, a local resident. “Despite its reputation as a Government Medical College, it lacks standard procedures and disregards the concerns of the people. This hospital is full of problems.” He expressed deep frustration, stating, “It is truly unfortunate that despite having this government facility, we are forced to visit private institutions because this one has completely failed to gain public trust. We are very afraid to send our patients here.”
Another local, Ghulam Hassan, said, “I have raised this issue through the appropriate forums multiple times. The government boasts of ‘Naya Kashmir’ but fails to maintain a functioning lift in a major hospital. This is an insult to the people of north Kashmir. We demand an immediate inquiry and action against those responsible for this negligence.”
Zubair Ahmad Mir, a young political leader, stated, “This is not an isolated incident but a symptom of a deeper malaise. It reflects a profound apathy and a complete breakdown of accountability. We have a right to functional, dignified healthcare. When a basic amenity like a lift remains non-functional, it signals that the well-being of ordinary Kashmiris is simply not a priority for the administration.”
The video provoked strong reactions across the district on social media, with many users describing the situation as unfortunate and condemnable.
One user reacted, “Shameful! This is the reality behind the glossy brochures and press releases. Thoughts and prayers with the families who have to endure this humiliation.”
Another comment read, “Where are the funds for maintenance going? This is not just a lift failure; it’s a failure of the entire system. Accountability must be fixed.”
Another user questioned the institution’s long-term viability, stating, “This GMC is a relatively new institution. If it cannot maintain its core infrastructure, what hope is there for its future and the healthcare of coming generations?”
Meanwhile, In a statement to Kashmir Convener, the GMC Baramulla authorities acknowledged the issue.
“An incident occurred at GMC Baramulla where the ropes of the 26-passenger lift were found to be damaged. Due to this technical fault, the lift has been rendered temporarily non-operational,” the statement read.
The authorities confirmed that repair work is underway and that lift services are expected to be fully restored by tomorrow afternoon. They assured the public that all necessary safety and technical measures are being taken to ensure smooth operation once the repairs are completed.
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