Palamu Mourns ‘God of the Poor’: Dr. Surendra Singh, Who Charged ₹5 Fee

The Palamu district is in mourning following the passing of Dr. Surendra Singh, a revered physician fondly known as the ‘God of the Poor.’ While the inevitability of life and death is a universal truth, Dr. Singh’s legacy is defined by his extraordinary compassion and dedication to his patients, particularly the underprivileged. Unlike many in the medical profession who prioritize profit, Dr. Singh was never a mere businessman. He dedicated his life to serving humanity, ensuring his clinic doors were open 24/7 without any preconditions or ego-related barriers. His practice in Haidernagar was legendary, with a nominal fee of just ₹5. Many days, he would see over a hundred patients, with at least half receiving free consultations. He treated patients from villages and rural areas with immense care, often refusing any payment. His commitment extended to other areas like Ramna and Nagar Untari, where he provided similar selfless service. Even after moving to Daltonganj due to declining health and age, patients continued to seek his expertise. When a private hospital requested his services, he insisted on maintaining his ₹5 fee, a testament to his unwavering principles. Though eventually persuaded to accept ₹50 due to hospital operational concerns, his core mission remained unchanged. Born in a modest family in Murma village, Dr. Singh deeply understood the struggles of the poor, having experienced financial hardships himself during his education. He valued relationships and never considered charging his own community. His simple lifestyle and unassuming demeanor made it hard to believe he was a doctor. Dr. Surendra Singh truly embodied the divine qualities often attributed to physicians, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those he served.