Protest Erupts in Shravasti Over Medical Negligence; Kisan Union and Bhim Army Workers Join Families

Shravasti, UP: Anger over alleged medical negligence following a road accident in Shravasti escalated when activists from the Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) and the Bhim Army joined families of the injured in a protest that began on 12 November. The protest demands action against the CHC (Community Health Centre) Superintendent for failing to provide proper treatment and for sourcing basic medical supplies like needles and threads from external stores.

Attempted Highway Blockade and Negotiations

On Thursday, protestors attempted to block National Highway-730, but police intervention redirected them to Sanjay Park, where they met Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Ashok Kumar Singh. A two-hour ground-level dialogue resulted in an agreement that magistrate-level officials would conduct an impartial investigation within two days. During the probe, CHC Superintendent Avnish Tiwari will be on leave, and further action will be based on the investigation report. The protestors only dispersed after the CMO signed the agreement.

Background of the Protest

The unrest stems from a major road accident on 17 October on the Ekauna bypass, which left several people injured. Families allege that CHC Superintendent Avnish Tiwari failed to provide adequate medical care, even needing to order basic supplies like needles and threads from outside medical stores. Due to this negligence, families had been protesting at Sanjay Park for 22 days.

Escalation and Public Outcry

When BKU and Bhim Army activists joined the protest on Thursday, tensions rose. Protestors began marching toward the highway, demanding immediate action against the CMO and the ‘corrupt system’. Police and the CMO intervened, initiating talks with the families on the ground.

The protestors demanded the suspension of CHC Superintendent Avnish Tiwari and insisted that the investigation be transparent and prompt. Dr. Ashok Kumar Singh agreed to the terms, marking a temporary resolution to the ongoing agitation.

This incident highlights public outrage against medical negligence and underscores the growing influence of activist organizations in ensuring accountability in healthcare administration.