Kalpetta: An elderly tribal man suffering from cancer was admitted to Mananthavady Medical College Hospital in Wayanad with maggot-infested wounds, prompting allegations of serious lapses in his treatment and care.

The patient, Bolan, a member of the Paniya tribal community from Thrissileri in Thirunelly panchayat, is reported to be in severe pain as his illness has advanced. People accompanying him alleged that he had not received adequate treatment despite visiting several government hospitals and cancer treatment centres over the past few months.

Those with him claimed his condition had deteriorated significantly and alleged that maggots were visible on parts of his body. They further alleged that maggots were seen falling from the sides of his lips while he was being given tea.

According to them, hospital staff were informed about the situation, but the response was not satisfactory. They alleged that basic treatment and wound dressing were provided only after local residents and political activists staged a protest and recorded videos highlighting his condition.

Patient moved between several hospitals

Bolan had previously been receiving treatment at the state-run Ambedkar Cancer Centre. As his condition worsened after returning home, he was taken to different taluk hospitals (government) before being admitted to Mananthavady Medical College Hospital.

People accompanying him said doctors later advised that he be shifted to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital for specialised treatment. They alleged that he did not receive proper care during this period and argued that the worsening of his condition reflected shortcomings in the healthcare support available to him. According to them, his wounds eventually became infested with maggots as his health continued to decline.

Concerns over palliative care

The incident has sparked concern among local residents over the availability and effectiveness of palliative care services for terminally ill cancer patients from tribal communities.

People familiar with the case said Bolan had been moving between hospitals for the past two to three months. They alleged that he did not receive the level of care and attention required for a patient in the advanced stages of cancer.

They argued that regular monitoring and timely palliative care could have helped prevent the situation from worsening.

Calls for immediate action

Bolan is currently undergoing treatment at Mananthavady Medical College Hospital.

The incident has led to calls for urgent intervention to ensure that he receives specialised treatment and proper medical care. Political activists have also taken up the issue.

Local residents have urged the Health Department and other authorities to take immediate steps to ensure appropriate treatment for the patient and to prevent similar incidents in the future.