Prayagraj Hospital in Dire Condition: High Court Blasts ‘Medical Mafia’ Exploiting Patients
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh – The Allahabad High Court has issued a scathing rebuke of the state-run Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital, accusing it of being run by a ‘medical mafia’ that is exploiting vulnerable patients.
In a startling revelation, the court observed that the hospital, attached to the Motilal Nehru Medical College, is in a deplorable condition, forcing the poor and helpless to seek treatment in private facilities controlled by doctors who are employed by the government.
‘Mortuary, Not a Hospital’
Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal, who presided over the case, described the hospital as a ‘mortuary’ and expressed shock at the lack of basic amenities like functioning fans and ACs in the ICU, private wards, and general wards. He also noted that copper pipes from the air conditioning systems had been stolen.
Hospital Staff Under Scrutiny
During a hearing, the Superintendent Incharge of the hospital revealed that doctors often arrived late for their shifts, with many even absent during crucial OPD hours. This lack of accountability further underscored the dire state of affairs at the hospital.
‘Medical Mafia’ Nexus
The court stated that a ‘nexus’ exists between private medical mafias and the hospital staff, crippling the infrastructure and compromising patient care. It pointed out that residents of Prayagraj, a city that successfully hosted the Mahakumbh, were suffering due to the lack of proper medical facilities.
Calls for Action
The High Court has directed the Municipal Commissioner to clear the sewage line and premises of the hospital within 48 hours. It also ordered the Superintendent Incharge to provide a list of doctors and their OPD timings for the week, to be published in local newspapers. The District Magistrate has been tasked with forming a team to monitor doctors engaging in private practice.
The court has also addressed concerns about unauthorized shops operating on the Motilal Nehru Medical College campus, the letting out of lawns for private events, and the security of the hospital.
Awaiting Progress Report
An interim report is expected to be filed before the court on May 29, 2025, to assess the steps taken to address these critical issues.
