Chandigarh, July 26 (Harbans Singh)
Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, the President of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) and the Member of Parliament from Ludhiana, made an appeal to the BJP Government, specifically to Health Minister J.P. Nadda today in the parliament, regarding the pressing issue of cancer and its treatment in India.
Highlighting the alarming rise in cancer cases, Warring stated, “Cancer is a disease that affects a large number of people across our nation. Since being elected as the Member of Parliament from Ludhiana on the 4th of June, I have signed numerous letters concerning cancer treatment and seeking subsidies via the PM Relief Fund.”
The PPCC Chief further emphasized the growing concern in Punjab, noting, “The cancer incidence rate in Punjab has increased by 7.45% over the past three years. Since 2021, estimated cancer cases in Punjab have risen from 39,521 to 42,288 in 2024. Women are predominantly affected by breast and cervix uteri cancers, while men suffer mainly from esophagus cancer due to alcohol consumption and dietary fat.”
In his appeal, the Ludhiana MP pointed out the socio-economic challenges faced by cancer patients, particularly the common man belonging to middle class families or underprivileged backgrounds. “India, one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, still has a significant population living under the poverty line or leading less privileged lives. These individuals require substantial financial assistance for cancer treatments. They struggle immensely to raise funds for these treatments, whether through the PM Relief Fund or other means,” he said.
Raja Warring posed critical questions to Health Minister J.P. Nadda, urging a more compassionate approach towards cancer treatment. “Why cannot the treatment of cancer and its medication be made free for those in need? How will a discount on medication help when the treatment is already so expensive? Why can’t the treatment of a dangerous disease like cancer be free in our country, especially for underprivileged people? Why is the Indian government not trying to reduce the suffering of the families already burdened by cancer by making its treatment free?”
He passionately added, “Can we not ensure that people under a certain income level receive free cancer treatment? Instead of just providing subsidies, can’t the Indian government offer free treatment for such individuals and save lives?”
Amarinder Singh Raja Warring’s demands underscore the urgent need for a robust and equitable healthcare system that prioritizes the welfare of all citizens, particularly those battling severe illnesses like cancer. His call for free cancer treatment for the underprivileged resonates with the broader goal of making healthcare accessible and affordable for every Indian.
