Chennai, November 17 (BPNS)
Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson and senior leader ANS Prasad has called for the immediate removal of state Health Minister Ma Subramanian, citing a deepening healthcare crisis in the state.
Prasad’s demand comes in the wake of the shocking stabbing of Dr. Balaji, an oncologist at Chennai’s Kalaignar Centenary Hospital, by Vignesh, a 26-year-old man.
The BJP leader argued that this incident exposes the grim reality of the state’s healthcare system, contradicting the DMK government’s claims of operating the best government hospitals in India.
Prasad criticized the severe shortage of doctors, nurses, and medical staff in Tamil Nadu’s government hospitals, which he said has led to unbearable work pressure, mental stress, and frustration among healthcare workers.
“Patients from economically weaker sections bear the brunt of this crisis, facing immense hardship and humiliation due to the lack of basic facilities, including beds, medicines, and diagnostic equipment,”
Prasad said. He highlighted the deteriorating condition of government hospitals across districts, claiming that the DMK government has failed to fulfill its electoral promises and address doctors’ long-standing demands.
“Despite Health Minister Ma Subramanian’s empty boasts in press conferences, Tamil Nadu’s healthcare system is in shambles.
His inability to address basic needs and improve hospital administration amounts to gross dereliction of duty,” he said.
The BJP leader urged the government to prioritize healthcare reforms, including an Increase in the doctor-patient ratio , enhancing the strength of nurses and medical staff , Improving laboratory facilities , ensuring uninterrupted medicine supply. and augmenting bed capacity in hospitals.
He stressed that the crumbling healthcare infrastructure has not only impacted patients but also triggered incidents of violence, as seen in the recent stabbing incident.
“The people of Tamil Nadu deserve better than a government that prioritizes rhetoric over real action. The DMK government must be held accountable for its healthcare failures and take immediate steps to revamp the system,” Prasad added.
Prasad also emphasized the need for upgrading district hospitals and medical colleges to reduce congestion in Chennai’s hospitals.
He suggested building hospitals in major cities like Madurai, Coimbatore, Tiruchy, Salem, and Tirunelveli, modeled after the Kalaignar Centenary Hospital.
“These upgrades would provide timely and quality care to patients, effectively utilize health insurance schemes, and ease the burden on Chennai’s healthcare facilities,” he said.
He called for significant investment in healthcare infrastructure, medical education, and comprehensive services, adding that strengthening the system is a vital investment in the future well-being of Tamil Nadu’s citizens.
Prasad concluded by demanding immediate government action to restore public trust, stating, “Quality healthcare and dignity are the least that the people of Tamil Nadu deserve.”
