Patients Allege Discrimination at Srinagar’s Bone and Joint Hospital, Demand Probe into MRI Referrals

Srinagar: Patients visiting the Bone and Joint Hospital in Srinagar have accused the hospital administration of favouritism and malpractice, alleging that MRI facilities at the government hospital are selectively used for influential individuals, while ordinary patients are frequently directed to a private diagnostic centre outside the hospital.
Several patients and attendants expressed outrage, claiming that hospital authorities rarely conduct MRI tests on-site. Instead, they are allegedly being pressured to get the scans done at a nearby private centre, raising suspicions of a nexus between the hospital and the private facility.
“This is a public hospital, and yet MRI tests are hardly being done here. Whenever we ask about it, we are told the machine is busy or not functional. But we have seen VIPs and well-connected people getting immediate access,” said a patient from north Kashmir.
Another attendant, accompanying an injured labourer from Pulwama, said they were advised to go to the private diagnostic centre just minutes after registration. “It’s a well-coordinated push. As soon as you mention MRI, they start hinting it will be quicker and better outside,” he alleged.
The complainants have urged the Health Minister of Jammu and Kashmir to intervene, demanding an inquiry into the alleged irregularities and immediate steps to ensure fair and accessible services at the hospital.
“This amounts to exploitation of poor patients. Public health institutions must not be allowed to operate in favour of private entities. The government must take strict action,” said a senior citizen who accompanied his daughter for treatment.