In a significant move to improve healthcare services, Jharkhand's Health Minister, Irfan Ansari, announced on Sunday a major initiative to enhance the dignified handling of the deceased across the state's hospitals. The plan involves the procurement of four mortuary vehicles for every Sadar Hospital, with an estimated budget of Rs 15 crore, to be completed within a month.
Addressing a Tragic Incident in Chaibasa
The announcement comes in the wake of a distressing incident reported from Chaibasa Sadar Hospital last Friday. A grieving father was compelled to carry the body of his four-month-old son home in a grocery bag. Initial reports suggested the hospital failed to provide an ambulance for the transportation of the infant's body, sparking widespread outrage and concern over healthcare protocols.
However, Minister Ansari addressed the Chaibasa case directly, stating that the episode was "misrepresented to malign the health department." He presented findings from an inquiry conducted by Chaibasa SDO Sandeep Anurag Topno. The inquiry revealed that the disheartened father left the hospital hastily and, crucially, did not possess a mobile phone. This made it impossible for hospital authorities to contact him when an ambulance became available later in the evening.
Clarification on Ambulance Services and Available Resources
Providing further details, the Health Minister clarified that the family departed of their own accord without waiting for the arranged transport. He also countered claims of a complete lack of resources, explaining that two mortuary vehicles were assigned to the facility. At the time of the incident, one vehicle was undergoing repairs while the other was en route.
Ansari took the opportunity to explain the distinct systems in place for different types of medical transport. "The 108 ambulance service is meant for patient transport, while mortuary vehicles operate under a separate system," he said. This distinction is often misunderstood by the public, leading to confusion during emergencies.
New Initiative for Dignity and Support
The newly announced procurement drive aims to prevent any such hardship for families in the future. The primary objective is to ensure the respectful and dignified handling of deceased individuals, sparing their loved ones additional trauma during already difficult times. By deploying four dedicated mortuary vehicles to each Sadar Hospital, the state government hopes to build a more robust and reliable system.
The minister concluded with a caution against unverified reporting, warning that it harms public trust and demoralizes healthcare workers who operate in challenging conditions. The Rs 15 crore investment signifies the government's commitment to strengthening this critical aspect of healthcare infrastructure across Jharkhand.
