India, Aug. 12 -- Residents and activists in Mankhurd and Govandi on Monday staged a rally and a one-day hunger strike opposing the privatisation of civic hospitals and demanding immediate staffing and improved services at the Shatabdi Hospital and the Deonar Maternity Hospital.

The 'Aspatal Bachao, Nijikaran Hatao'(Save hospitals, stop privatisation) Kriti Samiti, a coalition of over 25 organisations, led the rally beginning at the Cheetah Camp Maternity Home, and culminating at the Maharashtra Nagar Maternity Home. Over 100 residents of Govandi joined the march, with more than 20 observing a hunger strike till 3pm, and 250 others showing solidarity by joining the gathering.

The Samiti opposed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's p...