Nissar H. Gilani
Concerns have been raised in Srinagar following recent developments in a local commercial educational institution and hospital. A young patient’s death from Pampore town due to alleged medical negligence has sparked protests within the hospital premises. This incident has brought attention to previous patient deaths at the same hospital, which have been attributed to negligence. The hospital administration’s lack of transparency and satisfactory answers has only added to the public’s skepticism.
When a patient dies due to a terminal illness or fatal injury, it’s often understood. However, the death of a young patient without any apparent serious ailment raises questions. In such situations, the relatives of the deceased are likely to react strongly, sometimes leading to protests or violence within the institution. While police intervention is necessary, the subsequent legal procedures can take years to resolve, often leaving the next of kin exhausted or depressed.
The core issue remains: have medical professionals become so callous that they play with patients’ lives, prioritizing profits over care? Instances of unbelievable malpractices, such as unnecessary surgeries and fake medicine promotions, have been reported, sending shivers down the spine. Unnecessary implants, removal of healthy organs, and insurance frauds have become common. In such cases, greedy doctors benefit at the expense of common people. Patients are butchered, not treated, in these hospitals, where greed overshadows compassion.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that not all doctors are driven by profit. Many medical are professionals t exceptionally kind, caring, and diligent in their work. They prioritize patient care, often going above and beyond to ensure the well-being of those in their charge. These dedicated doctors are a ray of hope for patients and their families.
In a similar vein, a recent incident in an educational institution in Srinagar has raised concerns about the well-being of students. A grades 8th student committed suicide, leaving their single parent and close relatives shocked. The administration reported bullying and other reasons, while the parent alleged harassment in school. Whatever the reasons, a budding life has suddenly vanished. The police should take cognizance of the case, but the same problems persist – court cases, delay in justice, and the like.
The education sector has become a lucrative business, with institutions charging exorbitant fees and hidden charges that burden parents. Many are forced to opt for government schools or low-reputed commercial schools. Unfortunately, some parents are status-conscious and willing to pay hefty sums for their wards, even if it means financial strain. The fee structures are often ridiculous, with charges for swimming pools that remain covered for most of the session, horse rides that don’t exist, and uniforms that are a big racket. The most disturbing truth is that those running these educational institutions often have no knowledge of running professional institutes, yet they mint money under branded names.
The irony is that these institutions, often with franchises, continue to make money nonstop under one pretext or the other. Moreover, they constantly eye government or custodian land, making moves to grab it under legal cover. The plight of qualified teachers is equally embarrassing, as they are exploited by the management with low salaries, no bonuses, and other perks. Sadly, parents still prefer to pay through the nose for all this. It is a big mafia that needs to be tackled by the authorities swiftly.
To address these issues, the government needs to take action. Some potential steps include:
Implementing stricter regulations on private medical institutions and educational institutions
Conducting thorough checks to identify fake medical degrees and practices
Bridling chemists and pharmacy units run by unqualified individuals or with fake licenses
Ensuring transparency and accountability within government hospitals and educational institutions
Recognizing and rewarding doctors and teachers who demonstrate exceptional care and commitment to their work
By taking these steps, the government can help restore trust in the medical and education professions and ensure that patients and students receive the care and education they deserve.
Nissar H Gilani can be reached at nisargilani57748@gmail.com
