Panchkula, July 17 -- The civil hospital in Sector-6, continues to be mired in controversy over its deteriorated state, despite repeated interventions and directives from the Haryana Human Rights Commission (HHRC) spanning four months. The hospital's dire conditions, highlighted in a complaint filed by SK Nayar, president of the Citizens Welfare Association, are causing immense distress to patients and visitors. In its latest order passed on July 15, the HHRC has directed the civil surgeon to appear in person at the next hearing scheduled for August 19. Additionally, the commission has sought detailed reports from the chief engineer, PWD, and the chief fire officer (CFO). Earlier this year, the HHRC took a firm stance on the dire condition of the hospital. In its March 20 order, the commission underscored that the "right to health is a basic human right" and maintaining cleanliness in government hospitals is critically important for patient safety and preventing infections. It stated that not providing a clean environment, especially where vulnerable patients are present, constitutes a "gross violation of human rights". The commission had initially directed the additional chief secretary (health) to conduct a thorough inquiry into Nayar's allegations, involving him in the process, and to submit a detailed report. However, Nayar claimed that he was never consulted or involved by the department, asserting that the situation remains unchanged. A recent visit to the hospital by HT also reveals a litany of problems. Cleanliness, paramount in any healthcare setting, was alarmingly absent. Washrooms, adorned with hand washing instructions, lack soap or liquid soap. Broken taps and damaged water cooler drip trays were also widespread. Beyond hygiene, the hospital's infrastructure was also found crumbling. It was noted that the emergency entry gate has bumps, several lifts were non-functional, compounding the suffering of the elderly, sick, and physically challenged. Leaking ceilings create hazardous, slippery staircases, risking accidents. Furthermore, expired fire extinguishers pose a safety concern and the newly constructed Mother and Child Care building is operating without a vital fire safety No Objection Certificate (NOC). Dr Mukta Kumar, chief medical officer (CMO) of the hospital, stated that tenders for civil and engineering work have been issued to the PWD and are currently in process. She also informed that electricity work in the new Mother and Child Care unit would be completed soon, and repairs were underway for lifts in 'A' block affected by water accumulation from recent rains, along with ongoing toilet repairs. However, the complainant remains steadfast that the ground reality at the hospital shows no significant improvement, emphasising the need for urgent and concrete action....