The YSR Congress Party on Monday organised large-scale rallies and signature drives across all district headquarters in Andhra Pradesh as part of its one crore signature campaign opposing the alleged privatisation of government medical colleges. The initiative saw participation from party cadres, medical students, healthcare workers, and citizens from various sections of society, indicating widespread interest in the future of public healthcare infrastructure. Party representatives stated that the campaign aims to raise awareness and encourage public engagement on what they describe as a critical policy issue affecting both healthcare delivery and medical education in the State.
Concerns Raised Over Public Healthcare Access
During the rallies, party leaders expressed concern that the privatisation of government medical colleges could adversely impact access to affordable healthcare and education, particularly for students from economically weaker backgrounds. They argued that government-run medical institutions have historically played a key role in producing skilled doctors who serve in rural and underserved areas. According to the party, weakening the public medical education system could lead to increased costs for students and reduced availability of medical professionals in public health facilities.
Comparison with National Healthcare Expansion Efforts
YSRCP leaders also drew attention to what they described as a contradiction between national-level efforts to expand government medical colleges and the alleged moves in Andhra Pradesh. They stated that while government medical institutions are being established in various parts of the country to strengthen healthcare capacity, any move towards privatisation at the State level warrants careful scrutiny. The party maintained that such decisions should be guided by long-term public interest rather than short-term financial considerations.
Students and Citizens Participate in Campaign
A notable feature of the campaign was the active participation of medical students and members of the public, many of whom voiced concerns about rising education costs and future employment prospects. Participants emphasised that government medical colleges not only provide affordable education but also ensure equitable access to healthcare services across regions. The party said the signature drive is intended to serve as a formal expression of public opinion to be submitted to authorities for consideration.
Call for Transparency and Policy Dialogue
The YSR Congress Party reiterated that its campaign is focused on accountability and transparency in healthcare policy decisions. Party leaders called for a broader public dialogue involving medical professionals, students, policymakers, and civil society before any structural changes are made to government medical institutions. They stressed that protecting public healthcare infrastructure is essential for ensuring long-term health security and social equity.
Campaign to Continue Across the State
According to party sources, the one crore signature campaign will continue in the coming days, with outreach activities planned in both urban and rural areas. The YSRCP stated that it remains committed to advocating policies that prioritise public welfare and safeguard access to quality healthcare and education for all sections of society.
