The hospital, named after freedom fighter Kamala Nehru, serves patients from Shimla and remote areas of the state, symbolising accessible women’s healthcare for generations. Concerns have developed that repurposing hospital land or dividing services could undermine emergency and maternity care relied upon by thousands.

Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee chief Vinay Kumar stated, “This century-old hospital should not be shifted. Whatever is being proposed is not going to happen. I will take up this issue with the Chief Minister,” emphasising the importance of effective public healthcare institutions.

Former Shimla Mayor and State Secretary of CPI(M) Sanjay Chauhan said, “We will not allow this shifting to happen under any circumstances. We are fully prepared to launch a protest to protect this over-a-century-old institution, popularly known as Lady Reading Hospital, which holds immense historical and emotional value for the people of Shimla.” He added, “This hospital is not just a building but a symbol of public healthcare and heritage. Any attempt to tamper with its functioning or land will be strongly resisted. We will not allow builders, contractors, or any vested interests to play with such a vital public health institution.”

On medical implications, Chauhan explained that “Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBG) function as a single, integrated department and cannot be separated. These services must remain under one roof, as patients especially in gynaecology are highly vulnerable to infections. Fragmenting services will only compromise patient safety and quality of care.” He also mentioned a pending proposal since 2015 for infrastructure strengthening at KNH, and stated, “Instead of shifting services, the focus should be on upgrading and expanding facilities at the current site.”

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu responded by clarifying, “The Mother and Child Hospital, which is over 100 years old, will continue to function there. We have expanded it to 270 beds and are further strengthening infrastructure.” He explained the transfer of some gynaecology services to Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) was to offer improved treatment, highlighting the availability of advanced technology such as ultrasound and robotic surgery at IGMC. “The decision has been taken purely in the interest of better healthcare for women, not for any political gain,” he added.

He acknowledged existing infrastructure gaps at KNH, noting some equipment was outdated and patients deserved the best treatment. The Chief Minister accused opponents of politicising the issue, stating the government’s sole aim was to improve healthcare outcomes.

The All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) condemned the move, alleging the Chief Minister was misled by officials and had not fully evaluated the implications. The organisation underscored the inseparability of maternity and gynaecology departments and questioned shifting services after years of infrastructure development at KNH, including expansion plans dating from 2016-17 for IVF centres, robotic surgery, and modern laboratories.

State Secretary of AIDWA Falma Chauhan said, “Such decisions reflect a lack of sensitivity towards women’s health needs and any move undermining the hospital’s role will face strong opposition.” State President Ranjana Jaret endorsed the protest and announced plans for a Secretariat march with other civil society groups.

Medical professionals have also expressed concerns. BJP MLA and former Medical Superintendent of IGMC, Dr. Janak Raj, stated, “We have been informed that only the gynaecology wing is being shifted, not the entire institution. However, both services are closely linked and ideally should function from a single location - whether at IGMC or Kamla Nehru Hospital.” He remarked, “If the government plans to rebuild infrastructure, it would be more prudent to strengthen the existing facilities instead. Public sentiment must be respected. This hospital has a legacy that should be preserved.” He added political concerns, noting, “This could become the first instance where a Congress government appears to be undermining the legacy of Jawaharlal Nehru and Kamala Nehru, which is contrary to what the party claims.”

Senior paediatrician and former Medical Superintendent of IGMC and Deputy Medical Superintendent at KNH Dr. Ramesh Chand commented, “Such proposals were discussed in the past but were not considered practical due to lack of facilities. At that time, critical components like blood bank, specialist services, labs, and paediatric care were centred at IGMC.” He added, “Significant infrastructure has been developed at Kamla Nehru Hospital. Now, when facilities have improved, there is strong opposition to disrupting the system.” He warned, “Fragmenting services does not ensure continuity of care. If shifting is to be done, it should be comprehensive, not selective, otherwise it will create more challenges for patients and healthcare providers.”

UK-based surgeon and Shimla native Dr. Sunny Sareen expressed opposition on social media, stating, “I was born in Kamla Nehru Hospital, and like many residents, I share a deep emotional connection with it. Medical care is a highly specialised field, and such institutions should not be shifted without extreme caution.” He referred to previous departmental shifts at IGMC resulting in serious consequences, emphasising, “Decisions of this magnitude should involve medical professionals and the public, not be driven by political considerations. Healthcare infrastructure directly impacts patient safety and public trust.”

As protests grow and diverse voices emerge, the issue poses a critical challenge for the state government to balance modernisation and heritage while responding to public confidence. Civil society groups warn of sustained agitation, and political pressure increases as the government's approach in this matter faces close scrutiny.