The government dispensary located within the Rawalpindi District Courts has effectively ceased operations after the doctor's post remained vacant for more than a month. This administrative failure has left thousands of lawyers, judges, court staff, and daily litigants without access to basic medical assistance within the judicial complex.
Impact on Legal Community and Litigants
As the only primary healthcare facility inside the court premises, the dispensary typically serves hundreds of individuals daily, providing minor medical aid, initial check-ups, and emergency first aid. With no physician on site for nearly four weeks, patients have been completely deprived of proper medical examinations and treatment. Legal professionals and visiting litigants report that medical emergencies often arise during intense court proceedings, and the absence of a doctor forces them to seek care at private clinics or distant hospitals. This not only wastes critical time during emergencies but also imposes an unnecessary financial burden on those affected.
Aggravating Factors: Summer Heat and Seasonal Illnesses
The situation has been worsened by extreme summer heat and a seasonal surge in illnesses, making the lack of a medical officer a pressing concern. Lawyers and litigants expressed deep anxiety, stating that the absence of basic healthcare at a crucial public institution like the District Courts amounts to severe administrative negligence. They have demanded the permanent appointment of a doctor, along with a reliable supply of medicines and essential equipment.
Appeals to Higher Authorities
Bar leaders and representatives of litigants have strongly appealed to the Chief Minister of Punjab, the Punjab Health Minister, the Secretary Health, and other relevant authorities to urgently intervene and restore healthcare services at the dispensary. The continued non-functionality of the facility highlights a critical gap in public service delivery within a key judicial hub.
