Congress Slams Rajasthan Government for IPD Tower Delays at Jaipur’s SMS Hospital
Synopsis
In a recent development, former Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot criticizes the BJP government for significant delays in the construction of the crucial IPD Tower at SMS Hospital, questioning the project's escalating costs and asserting that these holdups are endangering patient lives.
Key Takeaways
Gehlot's criticism of BJP focuses on healthcare delays.
IPD Tower project at SMS Hospital faces significant setbacks.
Cost of the project has nearly doubled from initial estimates.
Concerns raised about political motives behind the delays.
Link to broader issues of employment and healthcare in Rajasthan.
Jaipur, March 24 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, unveiled the second chapter of his series titled “Intezaar Shastra” (The Science of Waiting) on Tuesday, intensifying his criticism of the BJP-led government due to significant delays in essential public welfare projects.
Expressing concerns regarding the state of healthcare facilities, Gehlot raised alarms about the stagnation in the development of the 1,200-bed IPD Tower at SMS Hospital.
Originally planned in 2022 with an expected completion date in 2024, the project has now exceeded its timeline by over a year, showing minimal visible advancement.
He pointed out that the hospital was supposed to be completed by 2022, yet it remains unfinished more than a year past its deadline.
Gehlot further criticized the current administration, asserting that under the BJP's governance, not a single floor of the tower has been built.
“The delay in the IPD Tower compromises the lives of patients,” he emphasized, noting that the initiative was designed to alleviate the burden on thousands of individuals visiting the largest government hospital in the state.
He also emphasized the alarming rise in project costs, escalating from Rs 400 crore to Rs 764 crore despite the lack of substantive progress.
Gehlot questioned whether the delays were driven by political motives, suggesting that the public might be suffering because the project was initiated during the previous Congress administration.
Earlier that day, Gehlot had raised concerns regarding recruitment delays and questioned the announcement of 10,000 jobs in the education sector, highlighting the absence of progress in implementing these roles.
He reminded the audience of the Congress government’s previous successes, particularly the well-regarded Nirogi Rajasthan Model, which had gained national appreciation for strengthening public healthcare.
Gehlot accused the current government of administrative inertia and falling short on essential promises, reiterating that delays in healthcare infrastructure and job creation raise questions about whether projects initiated during Congress's tenure are being neglected.
Point of View
Emphasizing the need for accountability in public welfare initiatives.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of the IPD Tower at SMS Hospital?
The IPD Tower project at SMS Hospital, initially planned for completion in 2024, has exceeded its deadline by over a year, with no visible progress reported.
Why is Ashok Gehlot criticizing the BJP government?
Gehlot is criticizing the BJP government for the delays in the IPD Tower project and the rising costs associated with it, which he believes compromise patient care.
What was the initial budget for the IPD Tower?
The initial budget for the IPD Tower project was Rs 400 crore, which has now escalated to Rs 764 crore.
How does Gehlot relate these delays to political motives?
Gehlot has suggested that the delays may be politically motivated, implying that the public is suffering because the project originated under the previous Congress administration.
What other issues has Gehlot raised recently?
Gehlot has also addressed delays in job recruitment in the education sector, questioning the progress of the announced 10,000 jobs.
