Rats Found in GMC Anantnag: A Shocking Incident Sparks Outrage

Sameer Ahmad

Anantnag,30 December: A disturbing photo from Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag has gone viral, showing five rats crawling on patient beds. This alarming incident has highlighted severe negligence and poor hygiene standards at the medical facility, sparking outrage among patients and the public, who are demanding immediate action.

The viral image on social media shows rats roaming near admitted patients, raising serious concerns about hospital administration and patient care.

Speaking to Arising State, Dr. Khursheed, the head of Bharat Pesticides, the agency tasked with rodent control at GMC Anantnag, revealed that his contract with the administration had expired in October 2024. He stated, “We were given a temporary contract for three months starting in July this year. Despite working overtime for an additional two months without an official order, the administration has not extended our contract.”

Dr. Khursheed further alleged that he had not received any payment for the work carried out. “I have repeatedly approached the concerned officials in GMC Anantnag to extend my contract and clear outstanding payments, but my efforts have been in vain,” he said.

According to him, GMC Anantnag owes his agency Rs. 25 lakh for previous work. He accused the authorities of adopting a lax approach toward the rodent menace, which has exacerbated the situation. “The casual attitude of the officials has turned the problem from bad to worse,” he added.

Dr. Khursheed also expressed frustration over the terms of his contract. He explained that although his agency was qualified for the task through the GeM portal, the contract was issued for only three months on a trial basis under order no. GMCA/Pur/201/1045-50 dated 26-07-2024. This order stated that the contract could be extended to one year based on satisfactory performance. However, no extension was granted.

He blamed the rat infestation on poor sanitation and clogged drainage systems within GMC Anantnag. “The drains are filled with dirt, providing a perfect breeding ground for these rats,” he said.

In response, Principal GMC Anantnag, Dr. Farhana Najeeb, stated that a committee has been formed to investigate the matter. “We have initiated immediate measures, including a comprehensive cleaning and disinfection drive. Housekeeping staff are working round the clock to ensure cleanliness and hygiene,” she said.

The incident has ignited public outrage, with many questioning the administration’s accountability and commitment to maintaining basic hygiene in one of the region’s primary healthcare facilities.