I write not in anger, but in anguish. After serving the federal government for over 25 years, I never imagined that at the age of 78, after surviving cancer, I would be forced to plead publicly for something as basic and lawful as medical reimburse-ment. In January last year, I was diagnosed with mouth cancer.
The disease progressed rapidly and left no room for delay or procedural formalities. A seven-hour emergency surgery was performed, followed by extensive radiation and chemotherapy. In that time, I was not thinking of rules, panels or approvals. I was simply fighting to stay alive.
Following the surgery, I submitted my medical reimbursement claim to the Ministry of Industries and Production, duly supported by complete and certified medical records. To my shock, the claim was rejected on technical grounds. A review was sought. It, too, was rejected. One of the objections raised was about the urgency of the surgery. I was asked to produce an ‘emergency certificate’.
Another objection raised was regarding the choice of hospital, and I was asked why I did not approach a government hospital. The irony is that the only government hospital in Lahore does not even have a functional oncology department.
Having exhausted all departmental remedies, I approached the office of the federal ombudsman. My petition was returned on the ground that the matter fell outside its legal jurisdiction. Thus, the last constitutional forum available to an aggrieved citizen stood closed — not on merit, but on technical limitation.
My only source of income is a modest pension. The cost of cancer treatment has exhausted my lifetime’s savings. The treatment continues, while the burden grows heavier with each passing day. At an age when one should be allowed to live with dignity, I find myself running from pillar to post, pleading for what is lawful and just.
Rules are meant to serve human beings; not to defeat them. When procedures are applied without humanity, injustice becomes institutionalised. The higher authorities in the land all those who still believe in justice within the system should take notice of the case. I am not seeking charity or favour. I am only seeking my lawful entitlement, humane consideration and administrative justice.
M SHABAN UPPAL
LAHORE
