New Delhi – The Indian National Congress has launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led central government, accusing it of neglecting public welfare by allowing a steep rise in healthcare costs and essential medicines. Referring to the current situation as a “healthcare crisis,” the Congress alleged that the cost of treatment and medication has skyrocketed, making basic healthcare unaffordable for millions.
Congress spokespersons claimed that prices of life-saving drugs have increased significantly over the last few years, impacting low and middle-income families the most. They further alleged that the government has failed to implement price controls or enforce existing regulations on pharmaceutical companies, which has led to unchecked inflation in the sector.
“From a simple painkiller to critical medicines for diseases like cancer and diabetes, everything is becoming costlier under this government,” a Congress leader said during a press briefing. He also cited data showing the rising prices of common drugs and diagnostic services, and called it a direct burden on the common man.
The party’s social media campaign used the tagline “Dawai, ilaj par mehangai ki Bhajpai goli,” criticizing the BJP’s economic policies that, according to them, prioritize corporate profit over public health. The Congress has demanded that the Centre take immediate measures to bring down healthcare costs, including price caps on essential medicines, subsidies for treatments, and better regulation of private hospitals.
Health experts have echoed similar concerns, stating that the rising out-of-pocket expenses on healthcare are pushing many families into financial distress. They emphasized the need for stronger public healthcare infrastructure and greater government investment in the sector.
While the central government has not issued a direct response, it has previously stated that various healthcare schemes like Ayushman Bharat are aimed at reducing the financial burden of treatment on the poor. However, opposition parties argue that the ground reality remains different.
Congress concluded its statement by urging the government to act swiftly and ensure healthcare remains a basic right, not a luxury.
