The Kerala Cabinet has announced a ₹10 lakh ex-gratia compensation from the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund to the family of Bindu Visruthan, the woman who tragically lost her life in the Kottayam Medical College Hospital building collapse on July 3. The government also recommended a permanent job for her son, Navaneeth, through the Travancore Devaswom Board, based on his qualifications.
Bindu, a 56-year-old resident of Thalayolaparambu, was at the hospital attending to her daughter’s surgery when a 68-year-old toilet block near wards 10, 11, and 14 collapsed, trapping her under the rubble. Despite rescue efforts, she succumbed to her injuries two hours later. The incident has triggered widespread public outrage and criticism over the hospital’s failure to maintain its ageing infrastructure.
Adding to the state’s support, MLA Chandy Oommen contributed ₹5 lakh to the family from his personal foundation and local well-wishers.
The government’s swift response reflects a strong stand on both empathy and accountability, aiming to provide immediate relief and long-term support to the grieving family while sending a clear message on the urgent need for hospital infrastructure reforms.
