In recent years, the Kashmir Valley has seen a sharp increase in families turning to the public for financial help to cover expensive medical treatments. Whether through social media or vans travelling through social media or vans travelling through neighbourhoods, the appeals often involve serious illnesses like cancer, liver transplants, kidney transplant or other costly procedures that range from lakhs to crore or more. While some patients manage to gather the required funds quickly, many remain without the necessary support, causing immense suffering and, in some cases, death.
The Emotional And Financial Burden On Families: For families unable to leverage social media or organize public appeals, the financial and emotional toll is overwhelming. The lack of organized support leaves them struggling to copy with both the costs and the trauma of seeinga loved one suffer. Government schemes like Ayushman Bharat’s Golden card and charitable foundations offer some relief, but the complex and time-consuming processes involved deter many families. Those with no connections or the means to expedite the procedure often face long delays, which can be life-threatening.
Growing Distrust Due To Fraudulent Fundraising: One of the most concerning aspects of this trend is the rise in fraudulent fundraising efforts. Unscrupulous individuals have been known to take advantage of public sympathy, raising funds for personal gain rather than genuine medical needs. This has led to widespread distrust among the public, making people hesitant to contribute, unsure whether their donations are going to a legitimate cause. The use of vans displaying patient photos and playing loudspeaker appeals has also raised ethical concerns, making it difficult for the public to verify the authenticity of these pleas.
The inequitable distribution Of funds: Kashmiris are known for their generosity, but the unregulated nature of public fundraising has led to disparities. While some patients manage to raise substantial sums, others receive little to no support. The inequitable distribution of funds results in some patients obtaining life-saving treatment, while others are left to suffer in silence. This highlights the need for a more organized system of support that ensures fairness in how donations are distributed.
“The establishment of a Bait Ul Maal system would bring about a more transparent and equitable method of assisting those in need. It would ensure that every patient receives the necessary financial support without having to publicly plead for help, while also eliminating the risk of fraudulent fundraising. It is now crucial for the government , NGOs and community leaders to come together and create a framework that can uphold the dignity of those in need and ensure that charitable resources are distributed fairly and efficiently.”
The Bait Ul Maal Solution; A More Dignified And Transparent Approach: One solution to address this growing issue is the establishment of a BaitulMaal system, an Islamic institution that manages charitable funds for the welfare of those in need. If every locality (Mohalla) in Kashmir were to establish its own BaitulMaal, linked to a central treasury, it could ensure that patients in need receive proper financial assistance. This system would prevent the public spectacle of fundraising vans and online campaigns, allowing patients to maintain their dignity and privacy. It would also reduce the chances of fraudulent activities, as funds would be distributed through a regulated and accountable framework.
Gaps In Government And Insurance Support: Some patients, particularly government employees, are eligible for financial assistance from their employers, or they benefit from schemes like the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) or other medical support programs. Additionally, a small percentage of the population has access to health insurance, which offers some relief through Insurance companies. However, the reality in Kashmir is that very few people avail themselves of health insurance either to unawareness or due to financial contraints. The majority neither have insurance coverage nor are they government employees, leaving them without any financial safety net when serious illness strikes.
Fundraising In Mosques: Another Avenue For Aid Or Exploitation?
In many cases, families also turn to local mosques to gather funds from the community. Some patients receive a portion of the needed amount, but others are left with little help. Unfortunately, this method has also been exploited by some individuals who fake illness or hardship for personal gain, turning it into a business. This dishonestly makes it difficult for genuine cases to be supported, further eroding public trust in the system.
The Path Forward;A Call For Systematic Change: Kashmir’s charitable spirit is undeniable, but the current system of unregulated public fundraising is far from ideal. The establishment of a BaitulMaal system would bring about a more transparent and equitable method of assisting those in need. It would ensure that every patient receives the necessary financial support without having to publicly plead for help, while also eliminating the risk of fraudulent fundraising. It is now crucial for the government , NGOs and community leaders to come together and create a framework that can uphold the dignity of those in need and ensure that charitable resources are distributed fairly and efficiently. There should also be a well-structured and fast government policy to tackle these urgent situations, allowing people to get timely aid without resorting to public displays of desperation.
A Survivor’s Perspective: As a cancer survivor, having been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in 2023, I personally understand the profound challenges that come with such diagnoses. Thanks to the unwavering support of my family, my office-both officially and personally- and friends, I was able to secure the best possible treatment. Alhamdulillah, with the grace of Almighty, I have recovered. I can feel the pain of such patients and their families deeply. It is a plea from my heart that we create a system where no one has to publicly beg for their loved one’s life and every patient received the help they need with dignity and respect.
(The author is a freelancer. The views, opinions and conclusions expressed in this article are those of the author and aren’t necessarily in accord with the views of “Kashmir Horizon”)
Irfan Rashid Khan
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