Protests Against Proposed Privatization of Hospitals in Balochistan

Quetta:A protest rally was organized by the Grand Health Alliance against the proposed privatization of government hospitals, contract hiring, and the lack of facilities in Balochistan. Doctors and healthcare staff marched from the Civil Sandeman Hospital to the Quetta Press Club, carrying banners and placards with slogans.

Participants in the rally warned that if the government did not clarify its policy to halt the privatization process within 10 days, they would not hesitate to close down the hospitals and initiate a protest movement. The rally was led by prominent figures from the Grand Health Alliance, including Chairman Dr. Bahar Shah, Dr. Fozia, and Salam Zahri.

Addressing the crowd, Dr. Bahar Shah emphasized that a clear policy must be presented within the specified timeframe to prevent the privatization of hospitals, as it would make medical treatment even more challenging for the common person. He pointed out that any strike by healthcare workers could lead to a significant decline in available medical services.

He criticized the provincial government for its lack of seriousness in resolving these issues, noting that despite recent negotiations asking for more time regarding hospital privatization, advertisements for contract-based employment at Pishin Hospital were published the very next day.

The protesters issued a 10-day ultimatum to the provincial government to withdraw its decision on hospital privatization. If their demands are not met, they warned of severe protests, stating that the government would be held accountable for any resulting unrest.

The rally concluded peacefully, with participants chanting slogans in support of their demands, insisting that the privatization of public hospitals would not be tolerated and promising to escalate their protests if necessary.