Cuttack: In what could be described as an example of fragile healthcare sector in Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s wife Prianka Marndi had to return disappointed from SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack due to lack of key facilities.
As per information, Priyanka visited the state-run hospital recently for a check-up and necessary advice regarding certain medical issues.
During her visit, she was advised by the doctors to get MRI done. However, it was found that the MRI machine at the regional diagnostic centre (RDC) has not been functioning for the last couple of days.
Subsequently, she had to go to Acharya Harihar Post Graduate Institute of Cancer in Cuttack for getting the MRI done, reports said.
The development has now become a major topic of discussion in the state with leaders of opposition political parties criticising the government.
Targeting the BJP government over the issue, BJD leader Ipsita Sahoo wondered what would be the position of common people if the Chief Minister’s wife cannot get proper health facility in a state-run hospital.
Congress, on the other hand, expressed gratitude towards the CM’s wife for visiting the premier state-run hospital despite the presence of several prominent private medical facilities in Bhubaneswar and sought immediate repair of the MRI machine at SCBMCH.
In a letter to the Superintendent of SCBMCH, Congress leader Manas Choudhury urged him to take immediate steps for the repair of the MRI machine.
“At the outset, I extend my sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s wife for choosing to undergo medical tests at SCB Medical College & Hospital, despite the presence of several prominent private hospitals in Bhubaneswar. Her decision to opt for Odisha’s premier government medical institution, knowingly or unknowingly, reflects trust in public healthcare and has brought to light a critical issue,” he said in the letter.
However, it is a matter of grave concern that the MRI machine at the premier hospital has been lying non-functional, especially for the thousands of ordinary citizens who rely solely on government hospitals for timely and affordable medical care.
Had this issue been faced by a common citizen, it may have never made it to the media. But since it came to light through the visit of the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s wife, we believe it has highlighted a systemic issue that needs urgent redressal.
Offering a token contribution from the party, the Congress leader urged the Superintendent to expedite the repair of the MRI machine and ensure that such essential diagnostic services are promptly restored for the benefit of the general public.