Healthcare Crisis Looms as Homeopathic Treatment Centers Face Closure in Jhargram
A healthcare crisis looms over the Lodha and Sabar tribal communities in the Jhargram district as the closure of essential homeopathic treatment centers threatens to exacerbate an already precarious situation.
The centers, a lifeline for these vulnerable communities, are facing imminent closure due to the central government’s decision to discontinue financial assistance to the "Door Homeopathy Treatment Center" projects in Jhargram and West Medinipur since the 2021-22 financial year. Previously funded under the Special Central Assistance (SCA) to Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) scheme by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, the centers now face an uncertain future, leaving thousands without access to vital medical care.
Partha Day, District Project Officer of the Backward Classes Welfare Department, acknowledged the severity of the situation. "The project was initially run under SCA to TSP, but the central government’s withdrawal of funds has left the centers struggling," he explained. "However, the state government is working to restart the project and ensure its continuation."
Despite these assurances, the threat of closure hangs heavy over the communities who rely on these centers for essential healthcare. In a desperate bid to save the centers, tribal communities from Sangram and Pranavpalli villages in the Jamboni block have submitted written petitions to the District Magistrate, pleading for the centers to remain operational.
The closure of these 11 homeopathic centers would leave a gaping hole in the healthcare system for these marginalized communities.
"This situation could have serious repercussions for our people, and we are hopeful that the government will take immediate steps to address the issue," stated Balaichandra Nayak, Chairman of the State Lodha Vikas Board, who has written to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and the Principal Secretary, urging urgent action.
The Lodha and Sabar communities are among the most vulnerable in India, facing historical disadvantages and limited access to basic services, including healthcare. These homeopathic centers have served as a vital safety net, providing essential medical care and helping to bridge the healthcare gap for these underprivileged communities.
Now, with the prospect of these centers shutting down, their already precarious health situation could worsen considerably.
Concern is mounting that the closure of these centers will not only directly impact the health of these tribal communities but also potentially lead to higher healthcare costs as they are forced to seek treatment from private providers, often at a greater expense and distance.
The future of these homeopathic centers, and the health and well-being of the Lodha and Sabar communities, hangs in the balance. The government’s response to this crisis will have a profound impact on the lives of thousands who depend on these centers for their health and well-being.
