The condition of the only government hospital in Malappuram district headquarters is truly unfortunate. Thousands of ordinary people rely on this public health centre every day. But it has been months since inpatient treatment (admissions) was stopped here.

A fire caused by a short circuit in the operation theatre damaged the entire electrical wiring. Since then, all surgeries have been halted.

The leader of the opposition in the municipal council has repeatedly demanded urgent action. Kottappadi ward councillor C. Suresh Master also pointed out that the municipality must take this matter seriously. Councillor C.H. Noushad has raised the issue several times too.

Even the chairman, Mujeeb Kaderi, agrees that the matter requires serious attention. But despite several announcements, the hospital continues to be neglected — “like a cow in the paper that neither drinks water nor eats grass.”

Even hospital officials have openly admitted that the condition is poor. The Hospital Protection Committee has issued warnings. Youth organisations like DYFI have submitted complaints to the municipal secretary, demanding immediate intervention. The CPI has also come forward, calling for urgent action.

Still, no one understands what is causing the delay in restarting inpatient care and surgeries. Hospital authorities believe that if the municipality shows real commitment, the issue can be resolved quickly.