Shahdol Administration Ends Byahri Hospital Protest After Promising New Health Facilities

A hunger strike that began at Byahri Hospital in Shahdol over deteriorating infrastructure and lack of basic services was halted after the district administration issued a written commitment to address the grievances. Protesters had demanded the recruitment of a gynecologist, the introduction of free ultrasound scans, and the establishment of a dialysis unit.

The administration’s response, delivered through an official letter, pledged swift action on all the listed demands. Officials said the appointment of a qualified obstetrics‑gynecology specialist would be finalized within weeks, while the procurement of ultrasound equipment and dialysis machines would be expedited.

Local health activists welcomed the assurances but cautioned that implementation must be monitored to ensure the promised facilities become operational. The protest, which had drawn attention to the broader neglect of rural health infrastructure in Madhya Pradesh, ended peacefully as authorities began the promised remedial steps.

The district health officer confirmed that a task force has been set up to oversee the rollout of the new services, aiming to improve patient care at the Byahri facility.