Kargil, April 8: Women from various areas of Kargil district staged a protest today against the acute shortage of gynecologists and female doctors at District Hospital Kargil. The demonstrators gathered in the hospital premises in the morning and later attempted to march towards the Hill Council Secretariat, but police stopped them from proceeding.

A large contingent of officials, including the Tehsildar of Kargil, the SHO, and women police personnel, was deployed to prevent the protest. Authorities stated that no unauthorized demonstrations would be permitted. Later, three women representatives were allowed to meet Executive Councillor Aga Syed Mujtaba Mosavi.

During the meeting, the representatives highlighted the severe doctor shortage, staff negligence, and difficulties faced by pregnant women. They warned that if the situation does not improve within a week, women across the district would be forced to take to the streets in larger numbers.

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Executive Councillor Mosavi assured the protesters that their concerns would be raised with higher authorities on a priority basis for an early resolution. He mentioned that the CEC and other executive councillors are currently in Delhi, and the matter will be brought to their notice immediately upon their return.

Speaking to the media, the protesting women said only two female doctors are available at the district hospital, causing severe difficulties for pregnant women during emergencies. They alleged that due to staff negligence and the lack of doctors, two pregnant women recently lost their lives, leading many others to avoid visiting the hospital.

“Wealthy families take their women to Srinagar for treatment, but poor women have no choice but to rely on this hospital, enduring fear and anxiety, which harms their physical and mental health,” one protester said.

If these allegations are true, it reflects not just negligence but a grave administrative failure. The district administration, particularly the Hill Council, must take immediate notice. Having only two female doctors in a district headquarters hospital is an alarming situation.

While the UT administration boasts of development, the lack of basic healthcare facilities at Kargil’s main hospital is deeply concerning. Public health must be prioritized urgently to prevent further loss of lives.