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“Cancer and accidents are divine justice for people’s sins,” said Assam’s Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Hang on, what did I just hear?
So, you don’t get cancer because of radiation, toxic chemicals, virus infections, air pollution, lifestyle issues, obesity, or poor diet, but because you cheated on your girlfriend?
Then according to Mr Sarma’s model of justice, if a person robs a bank, should they just get cancer instead of going to jail?
What sin did a three-year-old who got cancer commit, sir?
But seriously, Mr Minister, here’s a look at the statistics from your state.
So, you’re saying all these people were bad and deserved suffering from cancer because of their sins?
That’s rich coming from a Health Minister. Next-level patient-shaming.
Why don’t you focus on working to provide better healthcare and raising awareness instead of shirking responsibility?
You announced certain schemes and plans for cancer care. Why not try and implement those?
Assam has nine cancer therapy machines but needs 30, given its population of 3.1 crore. The state has 50 health institutes without doctors, 54 without nurses, and 16 without doctors and nurses.
Do you not see the need for better cancer care?
In fact, you’re now standing by your statement, saying this is how Hindu philosophy works. And you were not talking about science, but karma.
But weren’t you speaking as the Health Minister at a public event? You may want to choose your words much better next time, sir.
Video Editor: Ashish Maccune
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Published: 23 Nov 2017,09:41 PM IST