New Delhi, Nov 08 The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) has expressed grave concern over the hardships faced by students of Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara, Jammu & Kashmir, due to the continued absence of hostel facilities and other essential amenities.
In a formal appeal addressed to Union Health Minister Dr. J.P. Nadda, FAIMA National Executive J&K, Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan, highlighted that students are being forced to reside in unsafe and expensive private accommodations amid the freezing winter conditions of Kashmir.
The lack of proper hostel facilities has left students struggling with rent, transportation, safety and instability, turning their academic journey into one of daily survival rather than focused learning, reads the formal appeal.
“The absence of a hostel has made life extremely difficult for these students. It is disheartening to see future doctors, who should be dedicating themselves to study and patient care, battling issues of accommodation and security,” said Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan.
The situation is particularly alarming for female students, who face increased safety risks in unmonitored and insecure private lodgings. Despite government directives issued in March 2025 and the formation of a committee in May 2025, no tangible progress has been made to date.
FAIMA has urged the Union Health Ministry to take immediate action to ensure safe and affordable hostel accommodation and to expedite the construction of permanent infrastructure at GMC Handwara.
“A hostel is not a luxury — it is a necessity,” Dr. Khan emphasized. “We urge the Hon’ble Health Minister to intervene urgently so that these students can live and learn with dignity and safety.”—(KNO)
