Trinamool to Launch Statewide Protests Over Medicine Price Increase: Mamata Banerjee
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On April 4 and 5, the Trinamool Congress will hold significant protests against the price surge of essential medicines, as declared by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The rallies aim to address the healthcare affordability crisis for the common people.
Key Takeaways
- The protests are scheduled for April 4 and 5.
- They will address the price increase of 748 medicines.
- Rallies will occur in every block and ward.
- Banerjee criticizes the Union government's healthcare system.
- Free medical services are a priority for the state government.
Kolkata, April 2 (NationPress) The ruling Trinamool Congress of West Bengal has declared plans for extensive protest rallies and marches on April 4 and April 5, opposing the price increase of 748 essential medicines, as announced by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday.
"On April 4 and April 5, our party members will take to the streets to address this critical issue. Protest rallies and marches will be organized in every block in rural areas and every ward in urban locales to contest the price surge. If we do not raise our voices now, essential healthcare will become unattainable for the average citizen," she informed the media.
The Chief Minister explained that the dates for the protests were intentionally set for April 4 and 5, as her party opposes holding rallies related to this issue on April 6, coinciding with Ram Navami.
Protests will take place between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. on both days. She asserted, "The central government is attempting to establish a healthcare system that only one percent of the population—those who can afford to spend enormous amounts—can access for treatment."
Banerjee emphasized that the Union government has levied a goods and services tax on medical insurance premiums. "I have protested this and sent a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the matter," she stated.
Additionally, she mentioned that the party's Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members will actively speak out about the essential medicine price hikes in Parliament.
During the announcement, the Chief Minister also touched upon the steps her government has taken to provide free medical services to the populace. "Health is wealth. Our administration is committed to offering free Swastha Sathi (the state’s free medical insurance program). Each year, significant funds are allocated from the state treasury to ensure that free treatment and medicines are available to the people," she concluded.
