Is Kerala's Healthcare Narrative Under Fire After Recent Incidents?

Thiruvananthapuram, July 6 (NationPress) The Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and his administration, which has governed since 2016, have been showcasing their advancements in the state's healthcare sector. However, a series of recent events has led the Congress-led opposition to label this narrative as merely a public relations (PR) facade.

Concerns arose last month when the esteemed Urologist Dr. Harris Chirackal disclosed a significant lack of medical equipment and supplies, prompting the postponement of surgeries at the renowned Thiruvananthapuram Medical College hospital.

Subsequently, a toilet block connected to a medical ward at the Kottayam Medical College hospital collapsed. State Health Minister Veena George and State Cooperation Minister V.N. Vasavan informed the media that the building was closed and unoccupied, resulting in only two minor injuries.

However, first-time legislator Chandy Oomme raised alarm after learning that a bystander was missing, which prompted rescue operations. After three hours of effort, the body of 56-year-old Bindhu was retrieved from the rubble.

This incident led both traditional and social media to scrutinize the true state of health sector issues.

Public health activist Dr. S.S. Lal, who has worked globally with the WHO, remarked that Kerala's healthcare improvements are attributed to the efforts of past governments and developments during the pre-Independence era.

“The Left government is facing significant criticism now because when Kerala's health sector thrives, CM Vijayan and George take the credit, yet when crises arise, the blame shifts to healthcare professionals. This administration has created chaos in the health sector like no other,” stated Lal.

The Congress-led opposition, particularly Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan, asserted that the recent events validate their long-standing claims that the healthcare system is in distress.

“Key Covid figures have been manipulated, and this Left government has thrived on misleading PR tactics. Communicable diseases are rampant in Kerala. Minister George has become intolerant. Our demand remains clear: George must resign,” added Satheesan.

During this turmoil, Chief Minister Vijayan traveled to the US for follow-up medical treatment.

Concerns are emerging about the quality of healthcare in the state. If it is indeed top-tier, why is the CM seeking treatment abroad while former Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan is hospitalized in a private facility in the state capital?

Oommen also criticized the authorities for accommodating around 100 students in the deteriorating men's hostel at the Kottayam Medical College.

“The Kerala government must urgently find alternative housing for these students, as the conditions are severely inadequate,” stated Oommen.

The only comfort for Minister George, amidst the controversy, is the backing from her party. The coming days will reveal whether the protests demanding her resignation will subside or if Vijayan, under pressure, will take action.

On Sunday, Minister George visited the family of Bindu, who died in the collapse, offering condolences and assuring them of government support. Visuals from TV channels showed her emotional while speaking to Bindu's elderly mother, as she also comforted Bindu's husband, Visruthan, who requested a permanent government job for their son, a B.Tech graduate.

While this gesture attempts to quell the protests following the woman's death, one must question: Is the healthcare system under the Left government truly in good condition as previously claimed? The series of incidents raises significant doubts.