DY Chandrachud calls for strengthening India's public healthcare

Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has advocated for the strengthening of public hospitals and healthcare infrastructure to ensure medical treatment is accessible and affordable for economically disadvantaged and marginalized communities.

Speaking at the 55th anniversary of the University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS) in Delhi, Chandrachud emphasized that robust public institutions are vital to national progress and a sign of a healthy democracy. He urged medical professionals to prioritize compassion, medical ethics, and patient dignity, noting that doctors must focus on patient welfare and mental health.

Chandrachud highlighted the human dimension of healthcare, citing the historical example of a British doctor who performed surgery on Mahatma Gandhi in Yerwada Jail in 1924, noting that the doctor's professional duty transcended the political tensions of the era. He stressed the need to reinforce existing institutions to better serve those who depend on government facilities for essential and specialized care.