Hospital Neglect: Mentally Ill Patients Abandoned, One Dead, One Missing
Hospital Faces Criticism for Negligence
In a deeply troubling incident from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, hospital staff allegedly abandoned two mentally ill patients at a bus stand, claiming they were cured. Tragically, one of the patients was later found dead, while the other remains missing.
Lack of Communication with Families
The families of the patients, both in their mid-30s, have accused the hospital staff of failing to inform them about the patients’ discharge. The staff reportedly took the patients away without their families’ knowledge, raising questions about accountability and ethical practices in the healthcare system.
Legal Action Initiated
The local police registered an FIR against seven individuals, including hospital authorities like Kumar Ashutosh and Hemant Rajan, under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. This section deals with culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Sub-Inspector Deepak Kumar Rai filed the complaint, initiating an investigation into the incident
Sourabh Kumar, the Station House Officer of Barun Police Station, confirmed that an unnatural death case was registered on November 14. Despite circulating the deceased patient’s details, his identity remains unknown.
Hospital’s Justification Sparks Outrage
The hospital authorities reportedly justified their actions by stating that the patients had been “making the premises dirty” and suggested leaving them in remote areas. This statement has added fuel to the outrage, with many criticising the hospital for perpetuating stigma against mentally ill individuals and failing to fulfil their duty of care.
Need for Systemic Change
This incident highlights a broader issue within India’s healthcare system:
- The lack of adequate infrastructure
- Training
- Accountability in the treatment of mentally ill patients
Advocacy groups and families are demanding justice and immediate reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Government and NHRC Take Notice
The Uttar Pradesh government has ordered an inquiry and promised strict action against those responsible. Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of the case, issuing a notice to the state government and requesting a detailed report.
A Call to End Stigma
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the stigma already faced by mentally ill individuals in society. It is especially disheartening that a healthcare institution, meant to protect and care for patients, has reportedly contributed to their suffering.
Healthcare institutions must adopt a more compassionate approach, ensuring mental health patients receive the respect and care they deserve. Accountability and systemic reforms are urgently needed to prevent similar incidents and restore faith in the healthcare system
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
