Concerns regarding shortages of specialist doctors, gaps in healthcare infrastructure, and unresolved land ownership issues in the North and Middle Andaman district were raised during a press conference organised by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP, Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The press conference was addressed by Dr. Mallik and Sultan Ahmed, who highlighted issues identified during a visit to remote villages across North and Middle Andaman district between February 26 and March 6.
The visit covered several villages in Mayabunder, Rangat, and Diglipur with the objective of assessing ground realities and understanding the challenges faced by residents in sectors such as healthcare, education, drinking water supply and land documentation.
During interactions with villagers, recurring concerns were raised about the shortage of specialist doctors, limited healthcare facilities, and the lack of clean drinking water in several parts of the district. Land ownership also emerged as a major issue, with many residents reportedly possessing land licences but still awaiting formal ownership certificates.
Healthcare infrastructure, in particular, was highlighted as a major concern during the visit. “At Mayabunder District Hospital, only one gynecologist and one anesthetist are available, even though a district hospital requires multiple specialists, including pediatricians, surgeons, and other experts,” said Dr. Mallik.
The situation at Sub-District Hospital Diglipur was described as more critical. The hospital currently functions without specialist doctors and is largely managed by General Duty Medical Officers along with limited nursing staff. Residents also pointed out the absence of ultrasonography services for antenatal examinations, which has created difficulties for pregnant women seeking routine medical care.
At the Community Health Centre Rangat, only a pediatrician is available while other specialist posts remain vacant. Several Primary Health Centres across the district reportedly have only one doctor posted instead of the required two, limiting the ability of medical personnel to conduct visits to sub-centres and remote villages.
Villagers also reported that doctors rarely visit sub-centres and that in some health and wellness centres auxiliary nurse midwives are not staying in the residential facilities provided for them.
“A letter was submitted to the Health Secretary on March 9, highlighting the shortage of doctors, specialists, and nursing staff across healthcare facilities in North and Middle Andaman,” said Dr. Mallik.
“Around 32 specialist doctors are expected to be appointed, and several may be posted in North and Middle Andaman to strengthen healthcare services. The administration is also working to fill the vacant Medical Superintendent post at GB Pant Hospital in Sri Vijaya Puram,” said Dr. Mallik.
The press conference also addressed concerns raised following a recent helicopter accident, where allegations of negligence at a district hospital had surfaced. After reviewing the sequence of events and interacting with the medical staff involved, it was conveyed that the doctors had followed appropriate procedures under the circumstances.
The interaction concluded with a call for urgent attention to the issues raised by residents of North and Middle Andaman, particularly in the sectors of healthcare and essential public services.
