Srinagar: In the strife-torn region of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, a group of dialysis patients took to the streets of Srinagar to voice their vehement opposition against the recent decision by New Delhi to shut down local dialysis centers. The closure, slated for implementation on August 31, has sparked fears of life-threatening consequences among hundreds of patients reliant on these critical services.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the decision to close the dialysis centers in Srinagar has been met with widespread condemnation by the affected patients and their families. Protesters, bearing placards and vocalizing their dissent, rallied to draw attention to what they perceive as a grave neglect of healthcare needs by the Modi government in the region.
Muhammad Rafiq, a participant in the protest, articulated the group’s sentiment by stating, “We are not just patients, we are victims of the authorities’ apathy.” He further questioned the government’s disregard for the potential loss of lives due to the cessation of funding for dialysis treatment.
The demonstrators implored the authorities to retract their decision and to continue supporting private dialysis centers. They emphasized the inadequate infrastructure and capacity of government hospitals in the region, which are ill-equipped to manage the high volume of patients requiring dialysis.
Abdul Rahim, another protester, described the government’s decision as a “death sentence” for those affected. He called on the authorities to reevaluate their decision and take immediate action to safeguard the lives of numerous patients.