We are political doctors who write exams every 5 years: Ponnam

“We are political doctors – Munna Bhai MBBS types – who must write exams every five years. Only if the people like our performance, we pass,” Minister Ponnam Prabhakar said, drawing applause as he addressed the first graduation ceremony of the Surabhi Institute of Medical Sciences in Siddipet on Sunday.
Attending the event along with BJP MP Raghunandan Rao and Siddipet BRS MLA Harish Rao on Sunday, he handed over degree certificates to students of the 2019 batch and extended his heartfelt congratulations. He said the graduation of the first batch is a proud milestone not only for the institution but for Telangana’s medical education journey.
“Telangana was born to improve public services. Although it is one of the youngest states in India, we are leading in development,” Ponnam said.
He said the college, which began with limited facilities, has significantly improved its infrastructure and should aim to deliver both quality medical education and accessible healthcare for the poor. Addressing the new MBBS graduates, he reminded them of the sacredness of their profession.
“From tomorrow, you become doctors – equal to God in the eyes of society. Never forget your responsibility. Be positive with patients, guide them not just in treatment but also in prevention,” he advised.
He expressed concern over the rising number of dialysis cases, attributing it to lifestyle diseases, poor diet, and overuse of medication. “As doctors, educate people on how to avoid illness, not just how to cure it,” he said.
Referring to his long-standing association with Harinder, the college’s founder, since his student union days, Ponnam said political differences should not affect development goals.
He also called for more seats in the college and for bipartisan efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure.