Fortify Public Hospitals for the Poor: Former CJI Chandrachud
Former CJI DY Chandrachud calls for fortifying public hospitals to serve the marginalized and emphasizes humanity in medical practice.
Former Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud has made a powerful plea to strengthen and fortify strengthen public health infrastructure, describing robust public institutions as the bedrock of a thriving democracy. Speaking to reporters, the former CJI highlighted that these institutions are not just buildings, but vital engines that drive national progress and ensure the welfare of the most marginalized sections of society.
A Lifeline for the Marginalized
Emphasizing the critical role of government-run medical facilities, Justice Chandrachud pointed out that public hospitals serve as essential lifelines for millions of citizens. He noted that many of the poor and needy travel vast distances across different regions in search of affordable medical treatment, making the quality and accessibility of these hospitals a matter of urgent necessity.
Reflecting on the broader impact of institutional strength, he stated:
"In any society—especially in a democracy—institutions are essential. Whether they are public or private, institutions are necessary for us to progress and for the nation to move forward. We must strengthen our existing institutions and make them more robust."
He specifically urged a renewed focus on patient care and welfare within the healthcare sector to ensure that those who need help the most are not left behind.
The Heart of Medicine: Compassion and Humanity
Earlier in the day, the former CJI addressed the 55th anniversary celebrations of the University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS) in Delhi. In an inspiring address to medical students and practicing doctors, he shifted the focus toward the ethical and emotional dimensions of the profession, stressing the importance of mental health and humanity.
He reminded the future healers that their most significant contributions often happen in silence. "Every doctor who walked these corridors left a footprint without knowing they were building anything," he remarked, adding that the most impactful work of a doctor's life is often the work that goes unseen by the world.
Lessons from History: The Gandhi Anecdote
To illustrate the concept of unbiased care, Justice Chandrachud shared a poignant historical account involving Mahatma Gandhi. He recalled how, in January 1924, Gandhi underwent surgery for acute appendicitis while imprisoned at Yerwada Jail in Pune. The surgery was performed by a British officer.
The former CJI noted that inside the operating room, the political turmoil of the era vanished. The nationality of the surgeon, the status of the patient as a prisoner, and the colonial conflict between India and Britain became irrelevant. Gandhi gave his consent, recovered, and later expressed gratitude toward the man who saved his life.
Medicine Beyond Divisions
Drawing from this incident, Justice Chandrachud urged doctors to treat every patient without prejudice, regardless of their social standing, beliefs, or personal circumstances. He reminded the medical community that the identity of the person on the operating table is the only thing that truly matters.
"The patient in front of you may be a prisoner or a minister, a saint or a sinner," he said. "In the operation theatre, only one identity matters: a human being who needs you. Medicine at its finest is the one place where all our divisions are left outside the door."