The Hollow Applause (528 words)

( I have utmost regard for the medical professionals for the noble service they render true to their conscience and the Hippocratic oath they take. As in every profession, there may be a rare crook. No disrespect is meant to anyone. This is a story.)

The renowned surgeon, Dr Chandra, looked at Sunder, about his age, in his late 30s, with a poker face and spoke slowly. His father accompanied him.

” I have had all the tests done. I believe only an intervention by surgery would help, though there is a small amount of risk. If it is not done, there is a greater risk to your life. If both of you agree, I can prepare for it,” said the surgeon.

“What would we know about this? We would be solely guided by your advice, “said Sunder.

“Don’t worry. I will ensure everything is taken care of,” replied the doctor.

After they left, the surgeon’s second man, Dr Gupta, who was also a reputed surgeon with a deft hand, asked him, “Chandra, I am not sure whether the case calls for surgery. It is very risky, and very likely that the man may not survive. This is done only as a last resort when everything else has failed, and the patient is on the verge of death. I am really at my wits’ end. Are you not troubled by your conscience and the oath you took? Why are you resorting to this course? Don’t take me amiss. As a long-time colleague and friend, I spoke out”

Dr Chandra kept quiet for some time and then slowly started talking, “I am aware that surgery is premature in this case. But let me confide in you. I have a private score to settle. This man snatched away my sweet heart with his money and good looks. She was in deep love with me and very intimate till this fellow came into the scene.”

“Is it not murder that you are contemplating?” interjected Gupta

“No, it can at best be a wrong judgment. I am going to perform surgery professionally, and if he still succumbs due to the complications common in this process, can I be held responsible?’ said Chandra. He added, “I am a divorcee, and she is still charming.Who knows what can happen?”

“Sorry, I would not like to be associated with you in this operation”, said Dr Gupta as he left in disgust.

As a true professional, the surgery was carried out with utmost precision. Despite Dr Chandra silently waiting for some adverse development, luckily for the patient, none arose. The young man recovered steadily, making the operation a remarkable first-time achievement for both the hospital and the surgeon.

At the press meet after a few days, the Chairman congratulated Dr Chandra warmly while reporters flashed cameras without pause.

Sunder and his wife thanked the surgeon profusely before leaving the hall. Yet Dr Chandra did not fail to note the smirk on her face.

Standing a little apart, Dr Gupta watched the celebrations in silence. Then he walked up to Chandra and said quietly,

“Strange, isn’t it? You wanted him dead. Instead, you have made him live longer, happier, and more grateful to you than ever before.”

Dr Chandra forced a smile but said nothing.

Gupta looked at him steadily and said, “You still lose, Chandra.”

For the first time that evening, the roaring applause, Dr Chandra got, sounded hollow to him.