Kishore Peraje
Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal (EP)

Bantwal, Nov 13: In a tragic case of apathy by the health department, a sick beggar woman struggling between life and death was found pleading for help the whole day on Wednesday November 12 at a deserted bus stand at Devarakatte Kotramana Gundi here.

The bus stand has become a dwelling place for beggars for the last few years.

Member of town municipal council Devadas Shetty who saw the woman, telephoned the Bantwal council officials at 10 am and informed them about her condition.

The officials in turn informed the community health department and asked them to take her to the hospital. However, the health department did not see her even till 4 pm.

Devadas Shetty who observed the situation contacted the Mangalore district health officials and requested them to send an ambulance. Even then, the health department did not bother to send the ambulance till 7 pm, said eyewitnesses.

Finally, concerned that the woman's condition may deteriorate further, the council member and locals themselves admitted her to the community health center.