Palamu mourns the loss of Dr. Surendra Singh, a revered physician affectionately known as the ‘God of the Poor.’ His passing marks the end of an era for many who benefited from his extraordinary compassion and minimal fees. Dr. Singh was not merely a doctor but a humanitarian, dedicated to serving the less fortunate without seeking exorbitant profits. His clinic doors were always open, offering medical aid 24/7, irrespective of a patient’s financial status. Unlike many practitioners today who charge thousands, Dr. Singh famously charged a mere ₹5 for consultations, and often treated patients for free, especially those from rural areas. He never pressured patients into unnecessary tests or procedures, a stark contrast to the anxieties many face when seeking medical attention. For decades, he served communities in Haidernagar, Ramna, and Nagar Untari, embodying a spirit of selfless service. Even when relocating to Daltonganj and joining a private hospital, he insisted on maintaining his ₹5 fee, only reluctantly agreeing to ₹50 under pressure from the hospital administration. Born into a humble family, Dr. Singh deeply understood the struggles of poverty, making his dedication to affordable healthcare even more profound. His simple lifestyle and genuine care for his patients reflected the true essence of the divine healer, earning him the title ‘God on Earth’ among the people he served.
