TVM Medical College controversy: DME denies allegations of shortage of surgical instruments by Head of Urology Dept

Thiruvananthapuram: The Directorate of Medical Education (DME) has refuted the allegations made by Dr Haris Chirakkal, Head of the Urology Department at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College, regarding a shortage of surgical equipment.

In a press release, DME Dr Vishwanathan stated that the claims made by Dr Haris through a Facebook post are untrue and that an explanation has been sought from him. He also added that disciplinary action might be initiated against Dr Haris.

Contrary to Dr Haris’s statement, the DME clarified that four surgeries were conducted at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College on the day in question, and only one procedure had to be postponed due to a malfunction of equipment.

Dr Vishwanathan further explained that no other department heads have raised similar complaints and that the issue has already been brought to the attention of the Health Minister, who has directed that an inquiry be conducted.

The DME also mentioned that both the Principal and Dr Viswanathan himself have been trying to reach Dr Haris for clarification, but he has been unreachable by phone, adding that it appears that the Facebook post was deliberately made to tarnish the reputation of the institution.

The medical practitioner said that new surgical equipment is provided once the existing stock is fully utilised and that there is no deliberate delay in procurement.

Earlier, Dr Haris had posted on Facebook, alleging a severe crisis due to the lack of surgical instruments, saying that he felt helpless in front of poor patients and was even considering resignation. However, he later withdrew the post and shared an update on Facebook, informing that the original post had been deleted.