Tripura Congress leader slams ban on private medical practice

Agartala: Former Tripura Health Minister Sudip Roy Barman warned the state government against banning private practice for in-service doctors. He claimed the move invites disaster. Though no formal notification exists, doctors have already ceased private work. This led to massive overcrowding in outpatient departments across GB Pant Hospital and Agartala Government Medical College.

Roy Barman questioned the logic behind the decision. He noted that experienced senior staff might resign rather than comply. "The whole idea is unrealistic," he said. He further challenged Chief Minister Manik Saha, who also manages the health portfolio. Barman pointed out that Saha engaged in private practice himself while serving as a professor at Tripura Medical College.

The Congress MLA suggested the government should focus on strict guidelines during duty hours rather than a total ban. He noted that the state lacks the infrastructure and high pay scales found at AIIMS, making the comparison invalid. He warned that the current system leaves only interns to handle hospital services after hours.

Beyond healthcare, Barman lashed out at the BJP regarding allegations of theft involving Ram Mandir donations. He accused the party of betraying devotees through irregular land deals and missing ornaments. He demanded that supporters choose between their political loyalty and their faith, claiming the controversy brings international shame to India.