Kerala Human Rights Commission Takes Stand on Ambulance Staff Salary Crisis
In a significant intervention, the Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has issued a directive to address the recurring issue of delayed salaries for staff operating the crucial 108 ambulance service. Chairperson Justice Alexander Thomas emphasized on Tuesday that such incidents must not be repeated, as they directly impact patient rights during emergencies.
Funding Delays Trigger Service Disruptions
The commission's order reveals that the salary delays stemmed from a failure to disburse central and state funds to the Kerala Medical Services Corporation (KMSC) on time. Specifically, the funds required for operating the 108 ambulance service were not received until July 27, 2024. This financial shortfall created a domino effect, with KMSC accumulating a debt of Rs 75.50 crore to the operating company, ultimately leading to unpaid wages for ambulance staff.
The situation escalated when a section of the 108 ambulance staff halted their services in protest against the salary delays, jeopardizing emergency medical responses across the state. The commission noted that this not only affected the employees but, more critically, denied essential services to patients in urgent need.
Commission's Directives to Prevent Future Incidents
In its order, the SHRC has called for stringent measures to prevent such occurrences in the future. It highlighted that the 108 ambulance service is a vital public resource, often the first point of contact in life-threatening situations. "Understanding its importance, the government should take strict measures to prevent such incidents in the future," the order stated.
Furthermore, the commission has urged the government to seriously consider declaring the Kerala Ambulance Network for Injured Victims (Kaniv)—the official name for the 108 service—as a public utility. This designation could provide greater stability and ensure uninterrupted funding and operations.
Action Based on Public Complaint
The SHRC's intervention was prompted by a complaint filed by Aneesh Manian, following media reports on the salary delays. The commission has directed its order to the principal secretary of the health department, mandating immediate corrective actions.
Justice Alexander Thomas underscored that the ultimate victims in such scenarios are the patients, whose right to timely emergency care is compromised. The commission's stance reinforces the need for robust administrative and financial mechanisms to support critical healthcare infrastructure.
As Kerala relies heavily on the 108 ambulance service for emergency medical responses, the SHRC's directive aims to safeguard both employee welfare and public health, ensuring that this essential service remains reliable and efficient for all citizens.
