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Sabarimala Ayyappa Yuva Seva Samithi

Blade in the bandage: Sabarimala pilgrim flags shocking lapse at Pampa hospital


Kochi: A Sabarimala pilgrim has alleged medical negligence at the Government Hospital in Pampa after discovering a surgical blade inside the bandage on her injured foot.

The incident involved Preetha Balachandran (55) from Nedumbassery in Ernakulam district. She was part of the Thiruvabharana (Padayatra) pilgrimage from Pandalam and developed blisters on her feet during the long walk. She sought treatment at the Pampa government hospital, where her wound was dressed.

After completing darshan and returning home on January 15, Preetha removed the bandage and was shocked to find a surgical blade stuck inside it. Being a diabetic patient, she said the incident could have caused serious infection or complications.

She has filed a complaint with the Pathanamthitta District Medical Officer, who has sought details and documents related to the treatment. The incident has raised concerns about the quality of medical care provided to pilgrims during the busy Sabarimala pilgrimage season.

Attempts to contact the District Medical Officer for a response were unsuccessful.

credits: Onmanorama