Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar on Wednesday directed the state government to urgently address the shortage of medical diagnostic equipment in Sangamner in Ahilyanagar district and submit a detailed statement before the House, reported news agency IANS.
The directive came after legislators raised concerns over the lack of essential facilities such as MRI and CT scan machines in the region, forcing residents to seek treatment outside the area.
Concern over lack of diagnostic facilities
Members across party lines highlighted the difficulties faced by patients due to the absence of basic diagnostic infrastructure in government hospitals in Sangamner, reported IANS.
They pointed out that citizens are compelled to travel long distances or depend on private healthcare providers for tests such as MRI and CT scans, leading to increased financial burden and delays in treatment.
Speaker expresses displeasure over delay
Taking a serious view of the issue, Speaker Narwekar expressed dissatisfaction over the delay in addressing the shortage, noting that the matter had been raised earlier as well, reported IANS.
“The government must take immediate cognisance of the situation in Sangamner,” he said, stressing the need for prompt action on critical public health concerns, reported IANS.
Govt asked to submit data on statewide shortages
The Speaker directed the administration to compile comprehensive data on the availability and shortfall of MRI and CT scan machines across Maharashtra, with specific details on Sangamner, reported IANS.
He instructed that the information be presented before the conclusion of the ongoing Assembly session to enable informed discussion and corrective measures.
Warning to officials over non-compliance
Issuing a stern warning, Narwekar emphasised that directions from the Chair must be strictly followed by the bureaucracy, reported IANS.
He said that failure to comply with Assembly directives could invite strict action, adding that officials cannot disregard instructions issued by the presiding authority.
Deadline set for pending responses
The Speaker also addressed delays in responding to pending ‘Calling Attention’ motions, directing the government to place replies before the House without further delay, reported IANS.
He warned that if the responses are not submitted by the next working day, it could lead to breach of privilege proceedings against the Chief Secretary.
Focus on accountability and public health
Reiterating the urgency of the matter, Narwekar said the government must submit a detailed report on the shortage of diagnostic equipment in Sangamner along with statewide data, reported IANS.
He stressed that timely action is crucial to ensure better healthcare access for citizens and to address gaps in public medical infrastructure.
(With inputs from IANS)
