Vijayapura
The Karnataka government’s decision to establish a medical college in Vijayapura under a Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) model has drawn criticism from locals and stakeholders. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah during his recent visit to Almatti, reaffirming earlier hints by Medical Education Minister Dr Sharanaprakash Patil.
Vijayapura already hosts two private medical colleges, BLDE Medical College and Al-Ameen Medical College, and there has been a long-standing demand for a fully government-run college to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections. Critics argue that a PPP model allows private entities to profit while reducing the financial burden on the government.
Under this model, the government provides land, while private institutions construct the building and manage clinical operations at the district hospital. Staff salaries continue to be funded by the Health and Family Welfare Department, but they work under private management. Concerns have also been raised over seat allotment, including NRI and private quota seats, and the fee structure.
Civil engineer Sudheer Tankasali pointed out that Vijayapura already has robust infrastructure to support a government college. The 1000-bed district hospital, catering to over 1,500 in/outpatients daily, is equipped with MRI, CT scan, trauma care, and nature cure facilities.
Residents and experts urge the government to reconsider, stating a fully government-managed medical college would better serve public interest, ensure affordable education, and utilize the existing infrastructure efficiently.
