BJP observes bandh in Odisha’s Sundargarh over CDMO’s suspension

Sundargarh: Opposing the suspension of Sundargarh Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) Pankaj Patel, the BJP is today observing a six-hour bandh in the town.

The saffron party has decided to observe the bandh from 6 am to 12 noon with closure of shops, business establishments and government offices.

While vehicular movement was normal in the town, educational institutions have been excluded from the ambit of the bandh. The party has demanded revocation of the suspension order.

The BJP workers took out a motorcycle rally in the town this morning as a part of observing the bandh.

Notably, the Odisha Government yesterday suspended Patel for dereliction of duty.  He was placed under suspension on charges of not executing the ‘Mo Sarkar’ initiative of the State Government at the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH).

The move came after Secretary to the Chief Minister (Transformation and Initiative), V.K. Pandian visited the DHH to review healthcare services. During the visit, some patients complained that they were being asked to get medical tests done in private labs. It was also alleged that patients were being provided only breakfast whereas there is provision for meals at the hospital.

Sundargarh district president of BJP, BK Mishra said that before taking action, lapses by the government in maintaining the hospital should be addressed. “Lack of adequate number of doctors at the hospital is a major issue. Instead of resolving it, the government suspended the CDMO,” he said.