Thiruvananthapuram: Dr Haris Chirackal, a respected urologist and head of the Urology Department at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College and Hospital, has drawn national attention after publicly exposing a critical shortage of surgical equipment and administrative lapses within the institution.
His revelations, shared through social media, came after he was unable to perform surgery on an 18-year-old patient—coincidentally the same age as his son—due to lack of essential medical tools. The incident spurred widespread praise from across the political spectrum, except from the ruling CPI(M)-led Left government.
“I know that what I did was a professional suicide. Even if I am prosecuted for my statements, I will continue to remain the same. I have never criticised the Health Minister or the cabinet. The way out of this impasse is a correction on the part of the bureaucracy,” said Chirackal.
“I am not upset with what CM Vijayan said, as I consider him like my teacher. I had to resort to the outbursts after finding all the doors appear to have been closed,” added Chirackal.
Despite Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressing discontent over the remarks, Chirackal clarified that he continues to hold the CM in high regard.
The doctor's online statements triggered widespread public outrage and political mobilisation. Opposition parties, including the Congress and BJP, staged protests across Kerala, with some demonstrations turning tense on Tuesday during clashes with the police.
Meanwhile, the CPI(M) denounced Chirackal’s public disclosures, stating that he should not have aired his concerns in such a manner. Sources suggest that the Chief Minister’s frustration stems partly from the political fallout affecting State Health Minister George and her private secretary, Sajeevan—both seen as close allies of Vijayan.
Following the uproar, a medical instrument was urgently flown in from Hyderabad on Tuesday, allowing surgeries to resume at the Urology Department.
(inputs from IANS)