Kerala Health Minister Visits Trapped Patient Amidst Hospital Lift Outcry

Kerala Health Minister Veena George visited a man who had been trapped inside a hospital lift for two days. The incident led to public outcry. The Minister assured the patient and his family of strict action against those responsible and ordered an emergency investigation, resulting in the suspension of three staff members.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George on Tuesday visited a man who had been trapped inside a lift for two days at the Government Medical College Hospital here.

Ulloor resident Ravindran Nair, 59, had been stuck in the lift of the OP Block since Saturday and was rescued on Monday morning during routine elevator checks.

The incident sparked widespread public outcry. George visited Nair at the hospital, where he is undergoing treatment. In a statement, the Minister's office said she enquired about the patient's condition, which doctors confirmed was satisfactory.

George assured the patient and his family that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the incident. The patient expressed gratitude for the Minister's visit, calling it a great comfort. She had ordered an emergency investigation into the incident as soon as it came to light. Based on a preliminary investigation led by the Director of Medical Education, three staff members were suspended.

George said a detailed investigation would be conducted, promising further action.

(With inputs from agencies.)