Kerala may drop probe against Dr Harris Chirackal after public backlash

Thiruvananthapuram: Facing mounting public support for Thiruvananthapuram Medical College whistleblower Dr Harris Chirackal, the Kerala government is likely to quietly shelve its investigation against him. The doctor had alleged harassment for exposing corruption and systemic failures in the state’s healthcare sector.

Dr Harris, a well-regarded medical professional, recently revealed that he had sought psychiatric treatment due to stress. He said State Health Minister Veena George visited him during his hospital stay and spent time with him. “I was on leave for a few days and was under treatment. The Minister came and met me. Even though I am officially returning to service on Monday, I will visit my department on Saturday as I’ve been away for some time,” he said.

The Kerala Government Medical College Teachers’ Association (KGMCTA) has pledged full support to him, offering a morale boost in the face of the probe. “I am told they will look into the matter, and I have no problem cooperating with any probe. I hold no ill will against anyone,” Dr Harris added.

A turning point came during a press conference by the college principal and superintendent on Friday. In a video clip that went viral, the superintendent, seated beside the principal, was overheard taking a phone call and instructing the principal to read out the report “as directed” by the caller. The incident fueled suspicions of a coordinated attempt to target Dr Harris.

It was later revealed that the caller was a senior medical professional heading a key state government body, a disclosure that undermined efforts to pursue action against the whistleblower.

The Director of Medical Education is expected to submit its report on Monday, with many anticipating it will clear Dr Harris of any wrongdoing, as those seeking to implicate him appear to have inadvertently implicated themselves.