AIIMS reverts decision to shut OPD during Ram temple opening

New Delhi: Following massive criticism and out cry, the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi reversed its decision to shut OPD services till 2:30 pm on the occasion of the consecration ceremony at the Ayodhya Ram temple, PTI reported.

"In continuation with circular dated January 20 of this office, the outpatient department shall remain open to attend to patients with an appointment in order to prevent any inconvenience to them and to facilitate patient care," the new office memorandum said.

All critical clinical care services shall remain operational, it said.

An official memorandum by AIIMS, Delhi, had earlier noted that the Government has declared a half-day holiday on January 22 in view of the Ram temple consecration ceremony. "It is notified for information of all the employees that the Institute will remain half day closed till 14.30 hrs on 22.01.2024," NDTV quoted the earlier memorandum.

However, it said that critical and emergency services would be functional.

The notification resulted in a row after many criticized the move. Those who criticized the move pointed out that patients get appointments in the country's premier healthcare centre after waiting for weeks and even months for good and affordable healthcare.

Rajya Sabha MP and Shiva Sena Thackeray faction leader Priyanka Chaturvedi slammed AIIMS with a sarcastic post on X. She wrote, "Hello humans, Please don't go into a medical emergency on 22nd, and if you do schedule it for post 2 pm since AIIMS Delhi is taking time off to welcome Maryada Purushottam Ram."

"PS: However, wonder if Lord Ram would agree that health services are disrupted to welcome him. Hey Ram, Hey Ram!." NDTV quoted her.

The consecration ceremony at the Ayodhya Ram temple will take place on Monday.