Thiruvananthapuram: State human rights commission (SHRC) chairperson Justice Alexander Thomas on Tuesday stated that incidents like the delay in the salary of 108 ambulance staff should not be repeated.The human rights commission noted in its order that the delay in salary was due to the central and state funds not being provided to the company on time. Ultimately, it is the rights of the patients that are being denied. Such a situation should never occur. The service of the 108 ambulance is sought by the public in emergency situations. Understanding its importance, the govt should take strict measures to prevent such incidents in the future, the order stated. The order also mentioned that the govt should seriously examine the feasibility of declaring Kaniv 108 ambulance service as a public utility. The human rights commission directed this to principal secretary of the health department. Due to the delay in receiving salaries, a section of the 108 ambulance staff stopped their services. The order was based on a complaint submitted following related news reports. The order stated that central and state funds for operating the 108 ambulance were not received by the Kerala Medical Services Corporation until July 27, 2024. Due to the lack of govt support, the Medical Services Corporation owed the operating company Rs 75.50 crore. This resulted in the delay in salaries and non-cooperation from the staff. The action was taken based on a complaint submitted by Aneesh Manian. The Kerala Ambulance Network for Injured Victims (Kaniv) is govt’s free emergency ambulance service in state which can be availed by dialing 108.
