Former CJI Champions Institutional Strength and Healthcare Access

In a compelling address, former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud spoke to the youth about the integral role of democratic institutions in society during the 55th anniversary celebration of the University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS) in New Delhi. He emphasized that the framework of democracy and national advancement heavily relies on well-functioning institutions.

Significance of Strong Institutions

Chandrachud articulated the necessity of both public and private institutions in promoting societal progress. He urged attendees to advocate for the enhancement of existing institutions to better serve citizens, particularly in the healthcare sector, which is critical for many seeking affordable medical treatment.

Healthcare Infrastructure: A Call to Action

Highlighting the vital role of public hospitals, Chandrachud expressed the need for improved healthcare infrastructures, particularly benefiting underprivileged populations. He described public hospitals as essential lifelines for countless individuals who travel extensively in search of accessible medical care.

“Patient care must be at the heart of initiatives aimed at strengthening these institutions,” he asserted. Strengthening public hospitals can provide better services for vulnerable communities, ensuring that those in need receive quality care.

Empathy in Medical Practice

In an inspiring message directed at doctors and medical students, Chandrachud reminded them of the deeper significance of their profession. He remarked on the importance of their contributions, often overlooked in daily practice. “Each doctor has left a lasting impression in these halls, often unknowingly contributing to something larger,” he said. “Now, it's your chance to understand that the most impactful work you do may go unseen.”

Additionally, he urged medical professionals to regard every patient as a human being first, irrespective of their background or status. “Whether a patient is a prisoner or a minister, the only identity that matters in the operating room is that of a person who is in need of care,” he noted, encouraging healthcare providers to transcend social divisions in their practice.

Honoring Contributions of Medical Professionals

Chandrachud further recounted the exemplary contributions of Dr. M.S. Rawal during the Bangladesh Liberation War, who provided care to Mukti Vahini soldiers despite facing challenging circumstances with limited resources. This historical reference highlighted the extraordinary efforts of medical professionals working under pressure and without due recognition.

Sharing a personal narrative, he discussed the medical challenges faced by his daughter, who is affected by Nemaline myopathy. He recalled a critical incident in which his daughter required immediate ventilator support while on vacation, but was successfully treated at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh. This instance underscored the demanding nature of healthcare work.

Mental Health Awareness for Healthcare Workers

Chandrachud encouraged doctors to prioritize not only their patients but also their own mental and emotional well-being, particularly when navigating long shifts. “I often inquire if young medical professionals who work long hours are doing well mentally. It’s crucial to address mental health and take care of ourselves,” he stated.

His address culminated in a powerful reminder of the essential role strong institutions play in enabling accessible public healthcare and the compassion necessary in medical practice. He called for a responsive healthcare system that recognizes and supports both the patients it serves and the dedicated professionals who sustain these institutions.