Mangaluru blast case: DC ensures auto driver’s medical expenses to be borne by govt

Team Udayavani, Dec 22, 2022, 11:22 AM IST

Mangaluru: In relation to the treatment of Mangaluru cooker blast victim, auto rickshaw driver, Purushottam Poojary, Deputy Commissioner Ravikumar M R has directed the hospital authority through a letter, not to pressurize his family members to pay the hospital bill.

He has said that for any amount deducted from his daughter’s ESI, the government will add it back.

As per the reports, the treatment cost was being deducted from his daughter’s ESI.

He has said that if any amount has been taken from

Poojary, who suffered burn injuries in the blast that took place on November 19, is currently availing treatment at a hospital.

Regarding this, his family informed DC that further treatment costs cannot be paid through ESI.

Meanwhile, Mangaluru South legislator D Vedavyas Kamath said, “The state government has extended its support towards Poojary’s treatment. Once the process is completed, the amount will be released. I’ve inquired about his health and contacted his family. On personal grounds, funds have been released.”

“He will be given an all-new auto rickshaw by retaining the old permit. On Wednesday, BJP leaders met him, his doctors, and family members”, he added.

As per the hospital sources, Poojary’s treatment is expected to continue for some more days as he had suffered 45 percent burn injuries.

Earlier, State Home Minister Araga Jnanendra had visited the hospital, and met Poojary and his family. He had been assured of financial assistance from the government towards his treatment.