Agartala, 29th April 2026: A controversy has erupted in Dharmanagar of North Tripura after allegations surfaced that advertisements for private nursing homes, along with unauthorized hotels and shops, were operating within the premises of the North Tripura District Hospital, triggering sharp public reaction.
It is reported that a large billboard promoting a private multi-specialty hospital had been installed inside the hospital complex. The advertisement highlighted round-the-clock emergency services and cashless treatment facilities under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The presence of such promotional material within a government healthcare facility has raised serious concerns among residents, many of whom questioned how permission was granted for commercial publicity in a sensitive public institution.
Patients and their families reportedly faced confusion upon seeing private hospital advertisements inside a government facility, with several locals stating that such practices undermine confidence in public healthcare services. The issue has gained further traction amid ongoing complaints about shortages of doctors, non-functional CT scan services, and poor sanitation at the hospital.
Adding to the controversy, multiple small shops and food stalls—including a bhat-er hotel located directly in front of the Medical Superintendent’s office—were allegedly operating within the premises without proper authorization. The identity of those running these establishments also remains unclear.
Medical Superintendent Bhaskar Das, reacting to the developments, said he was unaware of the installations and had only recently come to know about them. He stated that the advertisement boards were promptly removed after the matter came to light and that a show-cause notice has been issued to concerned officials. He emphasized that no private commercial activity is permitted within government hospital premises and described the installations as unauthorized.
However, local social and political organizations have expressed skepticism, arguing that such activities could not have taken place without the backing of influential individuals.
The incident has now put the spotlight on administrative oversight, with public attention turning to the North Tripura District Health Department for further action.
