'Chief Minister is like guru to me, won't change my stance even if I face action'; Dr. Haris remains firm in his stance

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Dr. Haris, the head of the Urology Department at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College, said that he will not change his stance no matter what happens. The senior doctor had recently raised serious concerns about systemic failures within the government-run healthcare setup, accusing it of endangering patients' lives. Following his revelations, the Chief Minister, ministers, and party leaders came forward criticising him.

Undeterred by the backlash, Dr. Haris stood by his statements. "What I did is professional suicide. I will stick to my position even if action is taken against me. I did not blame the Chief Minister or the cabinet. It is the failure of the bureaucracy that must be addressed. The healthcare sector will improve if these issues are resolved. I am not upset with the Chief Minister's remarks. He is like a guru to me. I only spoke out when all the doors were closed," Dr. Haris told the media. Meanwhile, a doctors' association has come forward expressing support for him.

A few days ago, Dr. Haris revealed alarming issues at the medical college, including the cancellation and delay of several surgeries due to a lack of essential equipment. He submitted documented proof to an internal inquiry panel, including data on postponed procedures, repeated requests for surgical tools, and evidence of patients being forced to pay suppliers directly for necessary equipment.

Following his disclosures, the required surgical tools were delivered to the hospital the very next day.