Security and trolley services at state-run RIMS in Bariatu remained affected on Monday as 400 private guards went on a strike from 6am in protest against the hospital governing body’s decision last week to replace them with retired servicemen.

Kin of patients were compelled to push around trolleys while the premier heal hub remained virtually unmanned in terms of security.

Somra Oraon, the in-charge of 25 retired army personnel hired by RIMS, said they had a tough time manning the sprawling premises.

“The area covered by 400 men was looked after by only 25. You can imagine the challenges, which are bound to increase after dusk if the private security guards do not resume duty,” he said.

Deepak Munda, a resident of Chanho seen ferrying his injured friend on a trolley, said very soon patients at RIMS would have to arrange their own doctor. “Things are going from bad to worse at this government hospital that was once touted as a premier health institution. I had never thought I would have to push around a trolley in the emergency to ward,” he added.

Manager of private security agency Everest Human Resource Service Consultant Pradeep Singh said the strike was called off in the evening.

“The guards were worried about losing their jobs with immediate effect. I spoke to the RIMS management and was told that no one would be terminated from their service till March-end. A decision on how many retired servicemen will be hired will be taken after that,” Singh said.

Asked why the hospital failed to make alternative arrangement for trolley services, RIMS director Dr D.K. Singh insisted he had no information of “a serious problem”.

“People come here for treatment. Absence of a trolley attendant is not a major issue. Relatives and friends accompanying patients can do that. I did not receive any serious complaint. As far as security of RIMS is concerned, we sought additional number of retired army personnel,” Singh said.