Tributes paid to GP and NHS Campaigner Dr. Kailash Chand

By Mayowa Ayodele

Medics and politicians have paid tribute to Dr Kailash Chand following his sudden passing. News of Chand's death comes shortly after he suffered a cardiac arrest, a tragic development which was confirmed by his son Dr Aseem Malhotra.

More than a medical professional, the North-West based GP was a renowned campaigner and defender of the NHS. His position as a medical expert/activist in his own space saw him continue to appraise government policy as a prominent commentator and writer. He stood in support of decent pay rises for GPs, shone a spotlight on health inequalities, and continued to critique how they affected individuals regarded as 'minority ethnic' within the UK. Most recently, he had featured as a star guest in the BBC documentary Our NHS: A Hidden History.

"Coronavirus isn’t racist, but the pandemic has exposed racism in the system. And every day the Government doesn’t act, more lives are lost."

Dr Kailash Chand, speaking on the government's failure to implement Professor Fenton's recommendations following the PHE probe into covid and 'BAME' communities 

The British Medical Association (BMA) expressed their 'shock' and 'sadness' at the passing of the "staunch defender of the NHS".

...his was a life of service to his patients and fellow doctors and all at the BMA will miss him deeply.

British Medical Association

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham eulogised Dr Chand, describing him as "one of the kindest souls ever to have walked this earth". Burnham's description of being 'heartbroken' by the tragedy was common across a host of other responses to the news.

BBC Radio London Drivetime producer Lauren Stanley recalled that the renowned GP had become a friend to the radio programme's team during the pandemic. She spoke fondly of Chand's willingness to provide information, support and wisdom on the impact of the virus.  

Dr Kailash Chand came to the UK as an Indian immigrant in the late 70s. The testaments to his spirit of service align with his famed dedication to the NHS. His son's testament to the man he was, highlights how this spirit extended beyond a professional capacity. It has ensured his legacy will endure long after his passing.

RIEP Dr Kailash Chand