A day after whistleblower Dr Haris Chirackal, a senior urologist at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College, flagged an alarming shortage of medical equipment in his department, the Kerala government launched an official probe into the matter on Monday.
The investigation, ordered by Health Minister Veena George, began with a four-member expert team questioning Chirackal and other doctors. Despite withdrawing his viral social media post, Chirackal stood by his claims and provided documents to support his allegations of equipment shortages hampering patient care.
The incident has sparked political heat, with Opposition Leader V.D. Satheesan criticising the government, saying, &ldquo;Kerala&rsquo;s health sector is on ventilator support while the Minister survives on PR.&rdquo; He announced the formation of a five-member panel to evaluate the situation and suggest reforms.
Chirackal&rsquo;s now-deleted post had highlighted delays in treatment due to a lack of supplies, expressing frustration over ignored pleas for resources. He also stated he was prepared to face termination for raising the issue.
However, conflicting views have emerged, as several other doctors reportedly did not support Chirackal&rsquo;s version during the inquiry.
State Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal dismissed claims of funding cuts, promising a detailed report on healthcare allocations soon.
The probe continues as public and political scrutiny grows over the real state of Kerala&rsquo;s once-lauded public health system.
[Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by the Benefit News editorial team and is published directly from the IANS news feed.]

Kerala Govt Probes Doctor’s Claims on Medical Shortage

Whistleblower Dr Haris Chirackal triggers inquiry into alleged equipment crisis at state hospital.

Kerala Govt Probes Doctor’s Claims on Medical Shortage

Whistleblower Dr Haris Chirackal triggers inquiry into alleged equipment crisis at state hospital.

June 30, 2025 | 19:38 IST