Statewide demonstration against Govt Medical College privatization

The YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) SC Cell organized a widespread protest across Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday, opposing the state government’s proposed privatization of government medical colleges. In Amalapuram, Konaseema district, the protest was held near the statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar at the Edarapalli Bridge, with party members and supporters gathering in large numbers.

The demonstration, described by organizers as peaceful, was aimed at expressing disapproval of the government’s recent policy decisions regarding the Public-Private Engagement (PPE) framework in medical education. Leaders of the SC Cell asserted that privatization of government medical institutions could undermine accessibility and affordability for students from marginalized communities.

Similar protests were reportedly held in other districts of Andhra Pradesh, reflecting a statewide mobilization by the SC Cell to safeguard public medical education. Participants carried banners and placards denouncing privatization and calling on the government to reconsider its policy, emphasizing that medical education must remain a public service.

YSRCP SC Cell leaders stressed that the movement is not against development but seeks to ensure that government medical colleges continue to serve the public, particularly students from underprivileged and scheduled caste communities. They also urged the state administration to engage in dialogue with stakeholders before implementing any privatization measures.

The protest in Amalapuram concluded peacefully, with participants dispersing in an orderly manner after a series of speeches highlighting the importance of accessible medical education for all. Party leaders indicated that similar awareness campaigns and demonstrations will continue across the state until the government reviews its privatization plans.