A controversy has erupted in Kerala following a senior government doctor's revelation about an equipment shortage at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital, a state-run facility. Dr. Haris Chirakkal, head of the Urology Department, brought the issue to light, alleging a shortage of surgical equipment and subsequent delays in surgeries.
Dr. Chirakkal initially voiced his concerns in a strongly worded Facebook post, which he later deleted. However, he stood by his claims while speaking to reporters, asserting the validity of his concerns. "What I said was the truth. I won't hide after speaking the truth," he stated, dismissing any political motives behind his disclosure. He further explained that he had repeatedly raised the matter with senior officials, including the medical college principal and hospital superintendent, but no action was taken.
According to Dr. Chirakkal, the equipment shortages impacted all departments, but many doctors feared speaking out. He recounted instances where surgeries were performed only after patients purchased the necessary equipment themselves and expressed his frustration with constantly appealing to voluntary organizations and medical companies for equipment. This prompted him to expose the system's failures. He also voiced concerns about a potential vigilance probe due to his efforts to procure equipment outside official channels to prevent surgery delays.
In response to the allegations, the Health Department has ordered an inquiry into the matter. A four-member panel has been formed to investigate the claims. Health Minister Veena George refrained from criticizing Dr. Chirakkal while addressing the media. The Director of Medical Education (DME) in-charge, Dr. Vishwanathan, denied that any emergency procedures had been canceled due to equipment shortages and stated that purchases are made based on the requirements of the department heads.
The controversy has garnered support for Dr. Chirakkal from within the medical community. The Kerala Government Medical College Teachers Association (KGMCTA) has backed his claims, alleging that similar issues persist across several government medical colleges in the state. Dr. Rosenara Beegum, State President of the KGMCTA, called for a comprehensive study to verify the proper utilization of government-allocated funds.
The Leader of Opposition, V.D. Satheesan, echoed Dr. Chirakkal's concerns, stating that the UDF had been highlighting these issues for years. He alleged that the reality of Kerala's healthcare system differed greatly from the positive image portrayed by authorities. He further claimed that many government medical colleges lacked basic supplies, such as surgical thread, forcing patients to purchase their own equipment and leading to canceled surgeries.
Amidst the controversy and reports of potential disciplinary action against Dr. Chirakkal, the doctors' association has pledged its full support and warned of strong intervention if authorities retaliate against him. Dr. Chirakkal's revelations have ignited a debate about the state of Kerala's healthcare system and the challenges faced by government hospitals in providing adequate medical care.
