Mumbai: The Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has sought a detailed report on allegations of medical negligence at Mumbai’s state-run JJ Hospital, following a complaint by Ajinkya Sachin Patil, a resident of Ulhasnagar. Patil alleged that the hospital’s negligence led to his mother’s death in 2024, prompting him to file a complaint with the SHRC in December.
The SHRC has written to the Director of Public Health Services, seeking a response regarding the allegations. Following this, the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER) has directed JJ Hospital to conduct an inquiry and submit a factual report on the matter. The hospital has been instructed to present its findings to the DMER, which will then be submitted to the SHRC for further action.
In his complaint, Patil listed multiple grievances, including:
• Delay in medical treatment: He claimed that crucial medical care and essential medicines were delayed.
• Impact of doctors’ strike: When his mother was admitted to Ward No. 10—where around 40 patients were being treated—there were no doctors available due to an ongoing strike, leaving inexperienced medical staff struggling to handle the situation.
• Lack of cleanliness: The hospital environment was reportedly unhygienic, adding to the distress of patients and their families.
• Unprofessional hospital staff: Patil alleged that the ward boys and hospital staff behaved rudely and lacked compassion toward patients and their families.
• Medical negligence: He claimed that trainee doctors attempted experimental treatments on his mother, which, according to him, ultimately led to her deterioration and death.
Patil has urged the SHRC to take strict action against the hospital authorities, citing the mental distress and risk to patients due to the alleged lapses in care.
With the DMER now overseeing the investigation, JJ Hospital is required to submit its findings promptly. The SHRC will assess the report before deciding on any further action. The case has once again highlighted concerns over healthcare management in government hospitals and the impact of strikes on patient care.
