Controversy in Kerala: Doctor's Criticism Sparks Political Repercussions

In a heated reaction this Friday, Kerala Health Minister Veena George clarified that the recent show cause notice served to Dr. Haris Chirakkal was strictly a procedural matter. The Urology department head at Thiruvananthapuram government medical college hospital faced scrutiny for criticizing the government over equipment shortages.

The controversy began with Dr. Chirakkal's Facebook post voicing frustrations about missing surgical equipment, which government critics and the media widely publicized. The Director of Medical Education responded by questioning the doctor's adherence to the Kerala Government Servants' Conduct Rules, 1960.

This disciplinary action has elicited a strong backlash from political figures like V D Satheesan, Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly. Satheesan accused the administration of heavy-handed governance, alleging attempts to entangle Dr. Chirakkal in a theft investigation. Meanwhile, Dr. Chirakkal has expressed intent to cooperate by responding to the notice within the seven-day deadline.

(With inputs from agencies.)