Why Did Youth Congress Workers Storm Sree Chithra Institute Over Surgery Delays?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Youth Congress activists in Kerala protested at the Sree Chithra Institute over surgery delays caused by equipment shortages. This situation highlights the intersection of politics and healthcare, as lives hang in the balance. What sparked the outrage? Read on to understand the unfolding crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Youth Congress protests highlight serious healthcare issues.
- Delays in critical surgeries due to equipment shortages.
- Government purchasing policies are hindering medical services.
- Hospital's reliance on international supplies is complicated by procurement rules.
- Government officials are seeking solutions to resolve the crisis.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 9 (NationPress) Youth Congress activists from Kerala took a bold step on Monday by breaching the gates of the esteemed Sree Chithra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) in the state capital, voicing their concerns over the postponement of crucial surgeries caused by a significant deficit in surgical equipment.
SCTIMST, recognized nationally for its excellence in cardiology and neurology, serves as a vital resource for countless individuals, especially the economically disadvantaged, seeking advanced medical care. Recently, however, the facility has faced significant disruptions in its medical services due to expired contracts with key suppliers of surgical instruments that were never renewed.
The complications stem from a directive insisting that all acquisitions occur solely through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal, which predominantly lists Indian-made goods.
Hospital insiders and demonstrators report that numerous essential surgical supplies, particularly those sourced globally, are not accessible on this portal. Previously, the institute was permitted to issue tenders and engage directly with suppliers, a practice that has now been halted.
Frustrated by the surgery delays, a contingent of Youth Congress members managed to evade stringent security measures and reached the Director's office. While chanting slogans against the BJP-led Central government, they accused it of endangering the lives of impoverished patients. The atmosphere intensified as confrontations arose between demonstrators and police inside the hospital.
“The underprivileged rely on this hospital for essential treatments. The Centre’s inflexible policies are hindering care and delaying surgeries. This is intolerable,” remarked one protester.
Later that day, newly appointed Union Minister of State for Tourism, Suresh Gopi, who represents Thiruvananthapuram, visited SCTIMST to engage in discussions with hospital officials regarding the situation.
“I came here in my capacity as liaison minister. We had a productive dialogue with the officials, and the matter is being addressed with seriousness,” Gopi informed reporters.
“We will now reach out to the Union Finance Minister and other relevant authorities to expedite a solution. I am optimistic that the issue will be resolved shortly,” he assured.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the long-standing issues surrounding healthcare accessibility in India. This incident underscores the urgent need for dialogues between governmental bodies and hospitals to ensure that patients' lives are prioritized over bureaucratic hurdles. The nation must rally for a more effective healthcare system that caters to the needs of the underserved.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Youth Congress protest at SCTIMST?
The protest was triggered by delays in critical surgeries due to a severe shortage of surgical equipment at the Sree Chithra Institute.
What are the main issues faced by the hospital?
The hospital is facing disruptions in medical services due to expired contracts with suppliers and a new purchasing directive mandating use of the Government e-Marketplace.
What actions did the Youth Congress take?
Protesters stormed the hospital, bypassing security to voice their concerns directly to the administration, while clashing with police.
Who is addressing the situation?
Union Minister of State for Tourism, Suresh Gopi, visited the institute to discuss the issues and seek resolutions.
What solutions are being proposed?
The Minister mentioned plans to approach the Union Finance Minister and relevant authorities to expedite a resolution to the equipment shortages.
