Syalde hunger strike
Villagers in the Syalde area of Almora district entered the eighth day of their indefinite hunger strike on Sunday, refusing to relent despite deteriorating health. The protest is focused on their eight-point demand for improved basic services, including the provision of specialist doctors, better health facilities and infrastructure.
Residents including Lalit Bisht, Rakesh Bisht, Manohari, Devi Devaki Devi, Vimla Devi, Bhupal Bisht, Puran Paliwal and Jagat Singh Kandari remain staged in relay hunger strikes at the protest site. Health officials noted that Lalit Bisht has already lost 8 kg in weight since the strike began. “Despite our failing health, we will not step back until our demands are met,” he said.
The protesters claimed that even 25 years after the creation of the state, they continue to be deprived of basic facilities such as education, health and drinking water. “This is not just our village’s fight, but a struggle for the entire mountainous region still waiting for services,” said a protest leader.
Congress leader Ganga Pancholi, while offering her support, described the strike as especially important for women and farmers. She urged the government to act swiftly on the long-pending issues. The district administration stated that it had heard the villagers’ grievances and would convene a meeting soon. Authorities warned that if the issues are not addressed promptly, the protest could escalate.
The ongoing strike has raised critical questions about the state of public health infrastructure in the region. Protesters highlighted the absence of doctors, modern equipment and timely services. The administration said that a review is underway and responses would be provided shortly.
Dheeraj reports on governance, public services, jobs, and regional developments across Uttarakhand. He specialises in recruitment news, public-sector updates, and civic issues that impact everyday citizens. His reporting brings accuracy, context, and a grassroots perspective to local journalism.
