In a tragic incident in Uttarakhand, Shivani had to transport her brother Abhishek’s body tied to the roof of a taxi after being unable to afford the ₹12,000 ambulance fee. Abhishek, 20, was found unconscious near railway tracks and pronounced dead at Sushila Tiwari Government Medical College. Following public outrage, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami ordered an inquiry into ambulance service practices and directed officials to ensure such incidents do not recur.
A Heartbreaking Journey
Shivani, a 22-year-old resident of Berinag in Pithoragarh district, faced an unimaginable ordeal when her younger brother Abhishek was found unconscious after reportedly consuming poison. After being rushed to the hospital, doctors declared him dead. Following the post-mortem on December 7, Shivani sought to transport his body back home, a journey of approximately 195 kilometers. However, ambulance drivers quoted exorbitant fees ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹12,000, leaving her with no choice but to tie her brother’s body to the roof of a taxi for the journey. “I begged the drivers for help, but they all turned me away,” she recounted, highlighting the desperation faced by many families in similar situations.
Government Response and Public Outcry
The incident has sparked widespread outrage across social media platforms as images of Abhishek’s body on the vehicle’s roof circulated online. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken cognizance of the situation and ordered Health Secretary Dr. R Rajesh Kumar to conduct a detailed investigation into the incident. Expressing strong displeasure, Dhami instructed officials to ensure that such incidents do not happen again in Uttarakhand. Dr. Rajesh Kumar confirmed that explanations have been sought from relevant officials regarding their handling of the situation and assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible.
Systemic Issues in Healthcare Access
This incident underscores significant systemic issues within India’s healthcare system, particularly regarding access to affordable medical transportation. The principal of Sushila Tiwari Government Medical College, Dr. Arun Joshi, stated he was unaware of the incident as it occurred outside the hospital premises. He expressed willingness to assist if approached for help. Meanwhile, local residents have voiced concerns about the lack of regulation over private ambulance services, which often charge exorbitant fees without oversight.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This distressing event highlights an urgent need for compassionate healthcare policies that ensure dignity in both life and death. As we reflect on Shivani’s plight and the systemic failures that led to this tragedy, we must ask ourselves: How can we collectively advocate for reforms that guarantee equitable access to healthcare services for all citizens? Your thoughts and experiences are vital as we strive for positive change in our communities.
