Bandipora, May 12 (KNO): After 4 pm every day, volunteers and students allegedly collect cash from patients into their personal accounts at District Hospital Bandipora, with attendants claiming the practice has continued unchecked due to lack of administrative action.
Several attendants, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), complained that after 4 pm, when most permanent employees leave duty, volunteers and students take control of hospital operations, allegedly disrupting smooth functioning.
Mehnaza, an attendant, said she visited the hospital for an X-ray of her patient on May 7, during which a student allegedly conducted the procedure and demanded Rs 150, asking her to transfer the amount to his personal account. The official fee for the service is Rs 100, according to hospital records.
Mehnaza, who shared a screenshot of the transaction with this reporter, alleged she was forced to transfer the money to the individual's personal account.
The alleged practice is not limited to the X-ray section, as reports suggest similar incidents are taking place in the ECG and other sections.
Locals termed the practice unfortunate and demanded strict action.
"It is a hospital meant for public welfare. When such practices are taking place here, it amounts to a grave violation of rules and the official functioning of the hospital," said Imtiyaz Hussain, a resident.
Locals held the hospital administration accountable, alleging that no strict action is ever taken against such violations, which they said has allowed the practice to continue unchecked.
The patients also alleged that during deliveries, attendants are asked to pay unofficial 'treat money' after the birth of babies, demanding action against the practice.
Permanent staff members at the hospital said the facility is facing an acute shortage of manpower, forcing the administration to utilise students for various duties. They appealed to higher authorities to fill the staffing gaps.
Medical Superintendent of the hospital, Dr Mukhtar, assured action against those allegedly involved in the practice. However, locals claimed that similar assurances from hospital authorities in the past were never followed by concrete action.
Incharge CMO Bandipora, Dr Tahira, said she will look into the matter and take it up with the hospital administration, adding that those found involved will face action—(KNO)