JULY 25: In an exemplary act of public service, Jammu & Kashmir Health Minister Sakeena Itoo carried out a surprise midnight inspection at Jawahar Lal Nehru Memorial (JVC) Hospital in Bemina, Srinagar, to personally assess the functioning of the hospital during night hours.
The unannounced visit, which took both staff and patients by surprise, was aimed at evaluating the availability and responsiveness of healthcare personnel after regular working hours. Accompanied by a small team, the minister moved through various wards, including emergency, maternity, and general care units. She reviewed patient records, checked the availability of doctors and paramedical staff, and ensured that emergency medical systems were active and operational.
What made the inspection especially commendable was her direct interaction with patients and their attendants. The Minister inquired about their experience, listened to their concerns, and took note of suggestions and grievances on the spot. Many patients expressed appreciation for the unexpected visit and were hopeful that such proactive steps would lead to improvements in the quality of care.
Speaking after the visit, Minister Sakeena Itoo underscored the importance of accountability in healthcare services. “Hospitals are lifelines, and they must remain fully functional 24×7. Patients deserve quality care regardless of the hour,” she said. She also emphasized that all medical institutions in the region should follow strict duty rosters and ensure that no patient is denied treatment due to staff absenteeism or lack of facilities.
The visit has drawn widespread public appreciation, with many lauding the Minister for stepping out at midnight to check on public health services. Healthcare watchdogs and civic groups have also welcomed the initiative, urging more such surprise checks to be conducted across other hospitals in the Union Territory.
This proactive approach by Minister Itoo not only reflects her commitment to patient welfare but also sends a strong message about the government’s focus on strengthening healthcare delivery in the region. Her visit is expected to prompt stricter monitoring and better night-time preparedness across medical institutions.
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