Punjab BJP chief seeks early start of PGI Satellite Centre in Ferozepur
Chandigarh, June 6
Punjab BJP President Kewal Singh Dhillon on Saturday called on Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda here and urged the early operationalisation of the PGI Satellite Centre in Ferozepur town.
Dhillon also thanked Nadda for reposing faith in him to lead the party in Punjab. He assured that he would work to strengthen the party across the state and take its message to every section of society.
Dhillon informed the Union Minister that the governance model of Maharaja Ranjit Singh "continues to be an enduring source of inspiration and an ideal benchmark for Punjab's future". In line with this vision, he said that he has installed a portrait of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in his office as a symbol of his commitment to the Maharaja's principles of justice, inclusiveness, secular governance, and public welfare.
The state BJP chief also expressed gratitude to Nadda for strengthening the healthcare infrastructure in Punjab. He particularly thanked him for his personal interest in establishing the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bathinda, whose foundation stone was laid on November 25, 2016.
Highlighting the healthcare needs of the border region, Dhillon apprised the Union Health Minister that the PGI Satellite Centre in Ferozepur would benefit residents of Ferozepur and adjoining districts by providing access to quality tertiary healthcare closer to their homes.
The Punjab BJP chief also called on Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta at her office. He expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for her government's decision to simplify and relax the eligibility criteria for compassionate government jobs for dependents of victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
He particularly appreciated the relaxation in the upper age limit and educational requirements, as well as the provision allowing a next-generation family member to be nominated for employment where the primary dependent has crossed the age of 50 years.
Describing the decision as a significant step towards delivering long-awaited justice and dignity to affected families, Dhillon said it reflected the BJP's commitment to addressing historical grievances with sensitivity and compassion.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Nice to see Dhillon ji referencing Maharaja Ranjit Singh's governance model - that's a smart move to connect with Punjabi pride. But I hope this isn't just political posturing. The real test will be whether the centre actually opens in the next 2-3 years, not just more promises.
The 1984 anti-Sikh riots compensation issue is something that should have been resolved decades ago. Better late than never, I suppose. But why does it always take political pressure to get basic justice for victims? Let's hope this is implemented properly on ground level.
As someone from the border region, I can tell you how difficult it is to get specialist doctors or advanced tests done locally. A PGI satellite centre in Ferozepur would be a game-changer for thousands of families. But honestly, we need more than just one centre - the whole Malwa belt has been neglected healthcare-wise for decades.
I appreciate the efforts but I'm skeptical. We've seen so many announcements before - AIIMS Bathinda was also promised years ago and still not fully functional. Meanwhile, people continue to suffer. Show me the timeline and the budget allocation, then I'll believe it! 🤔
Interesting that Dhillon is focusing on healthcare and historical justice issues rather than the usual political rhetoric. Maybe this signals a more development-oriented approach from Punjab BJP? Time will tell. But the Ferozepur centre is genuinely needed - my cousin's family had to sell land just to pay for treatment in Chandigarh last year.