News Desk: The Grand Health Alliance (GHA), led by its Chairman Dr. Bahar Shah, held a significant press conference in Quetta to shed light on the ongoing healthcare crisis in Balochistan. The alliance, which represents doctors and healthcare professionals, voiced grave concerns over the privatization of public hospitals and the alarming lack of permanent employment opportunities in the province.
Healthcare Protests in Balochistan
Speaking to the media, Dr. Bahar Shah disclosed that healthcare professionals have been actively protesting for the past month. “Various rounds of negotiations during this period have failed,” he stated, criticizing the government’s apparent inaction in resolving their concerns.
Privatization of Hospitals Sparks Outrage
Dr. Bahar Shah strongly condemned the provincial government’s privatization policies, particularly the alleged sale of hospitals. “I do not understand the policy of selling hospitals. Government officials want to sell hospitals privately to their associates,” he claimed, underscoring the lack of transparency.
Broken Promises by Chief Minister Balochistan
The HGA chairman highlighted the inconsistency in Chief Minister Sarfraz’s promises. “During an event in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, the Chief Minister promised employment for every household. However, here in Balochistan, they are creating unemployment instead,” he remarked.
Contractual Hiring Raises Concerns
Addressing the issue of contractual employment, Dr Bahar Shah stated, “The Chief Minister is recruiting people on a contract basis. For Balochistan, there is zero permanent employment, and only a few are being hired on contracts.”
Hospital Sale in Dera Bugti: A Shocking Revelation
One of the most alarming disclosures by Dr. Bahar Shah was the alleged sale of a hospital in Dera Bugti. “The Chief Minister has sold a hospital to a private company for 850 million rupees,” he revealed, sparking widespread concern among healthcare professionals.
HGA Vows to Protect Public Institutions
Determined to safeguard public healthcare, Dr. Bahar Shah vowed, “We will go to any extent to save our institutions.” He confirmed that the High Court had summoned the alliance and that they would personally appear in court. “I urge doctors from all districts to come to Quetta and present their issues in court,” he appealed passionately.
Call for Accountability from PPP
Dr Bahar Shah also challenged the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) to address the privatization actions taken by the Chief Minister of Balochistan. “The PPP should explain why the Chief Minister is selling hospitals,” he demanded, seeking accountability.
Future Plans and Escalation Warning
The HGA issued a clear warning about intensifying their protests if their demands remain unmet. “If our demands are not accepted, we will either protest at the Red Zone or besiege the Assembly,” Dr Bahar Shah declared. He emphasized that their demonstrations would continue in a peaceful and democratic manner. “We will continue our protest in a democratic manner,” he affirmed.
Court Appearance and Critical Juncture
The alliance plans to present their grievances in court on Monday, marking a pivotal moment in their fight to protect public healthcare services in Balochistan. The outcome of these efforts will significantly impact the future of the province’s healthcare system.
