Continuous Protests Over Recruitment: Candidates Stage Dharna Outside Ahmedabad Kidney Hospital

In April 2023, a recruitment process for 11 different cadres was announced at Ahmedabad Civil Kidney Hospital, attracting 1,156 candidates. However, despite over 18 months passing since then, no appointments have been made. Frustrated by the lack of resolution despite repeated appeals, candidates began protesting outside the hospital on Gandhi Jagya Marg yesterday (December 2). Protesters remained seated outside the hospital overnight, and the agitation continues into its second day. Candidates claim that even after two days of protests, no official has provided a satisfactory response.

107 Candidates Disqualified from the Process

The merit list for the April 2023 recruitment was delayed until last evening, coinciding with the ongoing protests. Once released, 107 candidates were disqualified, reportedly due to inadequate documentation and non-compliance with the non-creamy layer certificate requirements. This decision has added to the candidates’ grievances, with many questioning the hospital’s transparency.

Chaos at the Hospital Gate

In addition to disqualifications, the number of vacancies was reduced from 650 to 430 seats, further fueling unrest. Candidates were denied entry into the hospital premises this morning, escalating tensions. Security personnel prevented them from entering, even when they tried to accompany ambulances into the building. The lack of dialogue from officials has intensified their frustration.

“We Were Shown Dreams, but No Appointments Are Happening”

Rakesh Patel, one of the affected candidates, expressed his dismay at the prolonged process, saying, “It has been more than 18 months since the exam, and still no appointments. Even the unemployed are in a better mental state than us. After being shown dreams of a stable future, we are now left in limbo. Our families are also suffering, and the lack of clear answers is taking a toll on our mental health.”

“Only We Know the Extent of Our Mental Anguish”

Many of the candidates, who had left contract jobs or private practices to prepare for this recruitment, now find themselves in despair. The hospital administration has failed to provide any clarity, citing that it operates as an independent entity. Families in rural areas, who harbored dreams of their children serving in the Civil Hospital, are also losing hope. Candidates now urge authorities for immediate appointments to bring relief.

Government and Hospital Administration Blame Each Other

A one-hour meeting between candidate representatives and the hospital director failed to yield any conclusive outcomes. Candidates remain seated in protest within the hospital premises. Police have signaled potential action to manage the demonstrations in public spaces.

Roshan, one of the candidates, pointed out, “The number of vacancies was reduced from 650 to 430, and there is no clarity on when the recruitment will finally happen. The director has not provided any definitive timeline.