Srinagar, Jan 02: Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader and Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kulgam, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami has expressed concern over the halting of the Cancer Treatment and Management Fund for Poor (CTMFFP) scheme, saying this has left patients struggling to afford treatment.
Tarigami in a statement said the scheme, which has been on hold since July 2024, was a lifeline for hundreds of cancer patients in Jammu and Kashmir who cannot afford the high costs of treatment.
“This scheme was a great boon for patients, providing critical support to families during such distressing times. Its suspension has left many in dire need of financial assistance,” he said.
The CPI(M) leader said there are growing number of cancer cases in the region. He urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to expedite the clearance of pending cases and allocate adequate funds to resume the scheme.
“The financial assistance not only helped cover treatment costs but also provided relief for families burdened with the expense of medicines and other essentials,” he said. “Immediate steps should be taken to reinstate the scheme, as it plays a vital role in supporting families who cannot afford the hefty expenses of cancer treatment.”
