The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) is poised to escalate its protests against the Karnataka state government's recent decision to permit private medical colleges to provide health services at public healthcare centers. The protests began on May 14, 2026, with a march from Ambedkar Circle to Clock Tower Circle in Dakshina Kannada. The government's move involves signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with institutions like Yenepoya Medical College and A.J. Institute of Medical Sciences to operate at various community health centers. CPI(M) Dakshina Kannada district Secretary Muneer Katipalla criticized Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, claiming that this initiative represents a commercialization of healthcare, which will burden residents with increased treatment costs. The party plans to intensify its protests, including organizing black flag demonstrations and human chains around healthcare centers. CPI(M) leaders emphasize their long-standing opposition to the privatization of health services, asserting that the government is neglecting public investment in health and education.