Jagannath University’s medical center is currently relying on one doctor to provide healthcare services for about 18,000 students, according to a report published on July 25, 2026. Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mita Shabnam is the sole physician after another doctor left and no replacement was appointed. The center also faces limited medicine supplies, staff shortages and only one ambulance, leaving students facing difficulties in obtaining treatment.

The medical center serves an average of 400 to 500 students daily. Dr. Shabnam works with two technical officers, one medical assistant and two MLSS staff members. Students said they often wait for hours, cannot always obtain needed medicines and lack access to necessary tests or treatment. One student also said the center is closed after 4 p.m., even when emergency care may be needed.

Dr. Shabnam said about 40 types of medicines and medical supplies are used for primary treatment, while seriously ill patients are sent to outside hospitals. University authorities said they have written to the University Grants Commission seeking approval for new positions, as hiring without approval would make salary funding impossible. Student representatives also cited plans for a modern medical laboratory and another ambulance.