Shimla: Women’s group opposes shifting of KNH Gynae OPD

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Women’s group opposes OPD shift, warns of bigger protest

Shimla: The All India Democratic Women’s Association staged a protest outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Shimla on Saturday against shifting the gynaecology outpatient department (OPD) from Kamla Nehru Hospital (KNH) to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), demanding the services be restored to KNH. The organisation warned of a larger agitation if the government failed to address its concerns.

Falma Chauhan, the association’s state secretary, said the government should strengthen KNH’s healthcare facilities instead of shifting the OPD to IGMC. She demanded advanced facilities, including robotic surgery, at KNH and called for the immediate withdrawal of the increase in diagnostic test rates implemented from April 1, 2026.

Chauhan said the matter was pending before the High Court and claimed the court had directed the government to retain the KNH hospital and ensure its premises were not used for other activities.

She alleged that the continued operation of the OPD at IGMC was causing inconvenience to women patients. According to her, some women were issued registration slips at IGMC but were then directed to KNH for treatment, forcing them to travel between the two hospitals.

Pregnant women were facing particular difficulties, she said, urging the government to intervene and ensure that the gynecology OPD remained at KNH.

The association said improving facilities at KNH and retaining the OPD there would reduce the difficulties faced by women seeking treatment. The association warned of intensifying protests if its demands were not met.