CM performs Bhumi Poojan for Sirsa medical college

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Thursday performed ‘Bhumi Poojan’ and ground-breaking ceremony for Sant Sarasai Nath Ji Government Medical College in Sirsa.

The event was attended by Health Minister Kumari Arti Rao, former MP Sunita Duggal, HLP leader Gopal Kanda, Odisha’s former Governor Prof Ganeshi Lal and Sirsa MLA Gokul Setia.

The medical college will be built on 21 acres at an estimated cost of Rs 1,010 crore. CM Saini highlighted the legacy of Baba Sarasai Nath, a saint who once saved Shah Jahan’s son Dara Shikoh’s life. He stated that the college aims to provide top-notch medical care to patients.

During his address, the CM announced the establishment of a cancer treatment centre on 5.5 acres in Sirsa and stated that the state is working on five new medical colleges, raising the total count to 15.

He credited the "double-engine government" for accelerating development over the past decade. Projects like Bhiwani Medical College are nearing completion and nursing colleges have opened in Faridabad, Panchkula and Rewari.

The CM emphasised free healthcare for the poor, including the provision of a Rs 5 lakh health insurance scheme under the Chirayu Haryana initiative.

Health Minister Kumari Arti Rao reiterated the government’s commitment to building medical colleges in every district and establishing trauma centres to improve healthcare access across Haryana.

Amid the celebratory atmosphere, local political dynamics were on display. Current MLA Gokul Setia voiced his dissatisfaction with the district administration, alleging that his name was removed from the official welcome list under someone’s influence. He stated that he had planned to welcome the CM at the Air Force station gate but was prevented from doing so. CM Saini, upon learning of this, ensured Setia was invited inside and waited for his arrival before proceeding to the venue.

During his speech, Setia lauded Saini as a leader who prioritises inclusivity and fairness. However, his tone reflected frustration as he pointedly avoided mentioning former MLA and minister Gopal Kanda who was present on stage.

In response, Gopal Kanda acknowledged everyone, including Setia, in his speech and took credit for the medical college project, claiming it stemmed from a demand he made to former CM Manohar Lal Khattar in 2019. Kanda also remarked on Setia’s apparent shift in tone, highlighting his newfound alignment with BJP policies.