Protests broke out outside Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital on Friday after a pregnant woman, Tanisha Bhise, died when the hospital refused to admit her without an advance payment of Rs 10 lakh. Shiv Sena leaders from both factions gathered at the hospital, demanding its license be revoked and officials be suspended. Police have increased security in the area. As tensions grew, protesters from both groups threw coins at hospital officials. The situation turned chaotic when they attempted to enter the hospital, but police intervened to stop them.
Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar has ordered an inquiry into the incident. He called the situation disturbing and assured that a committee would investigate the allegations. “A woman lost her life because she was denied treatment at Mangeshkar Hospital for not paying in advance. The committee will examine all aspects, including statements from the family. Strict legal action will be taken based on the findings,” Abitkar said.
He noted that the hospital operates under the Trust Act and receives government benefits. “If the hospital demanded money before admission and violated medical protocols, the government will take strong action,” he added.
Pune District Collector Jitendra Dudi has also taken note of the case. “The administration will ensure appropriate action. Land leases have conditions, and we will review them before taking a decision. The committee’s report, expected within two days, will reveal what happened,” he said.
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What Happened?
Tanisha Bhise was rushed to Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital after experiencing labor pains. Her family alleges that the hospital demanded ₹10 lakh before beginning treatment. The total estimated cost was reportedly ₹20 lakh.
Her family initially offered ₹3 lakh upfront and assured the hospital they would arrange the rest. Despite this, hospital staff allegedly refused to admit her and suggested transferring her to Sassoon Hospital if they could not afford the charges.
On March 29, Tanisha Bhise died due to lack of treatment.
Her family claims the delay cost her life. Bhise was the wife of Sushant Bhise, personal assistant to BJP MLC Amit Gorakhe.
Hospital Responds to Allegations
Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital has refuted the claims, accusing the woman’s family of providing “misleading information.” Medical Director Dr. Dhananjay Kelkar stated that a detailed report would be submitted to the state health department. “The report will include medical details that were concealed by the deceased’s family,” he said.
Political Reactions
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare criticised the hospital, saying Tanisha Bhise might have survived if the administration had shown humanitarian consideration. BJP MLC Chitra Wagh called for strict action, including revoking the licenses of doctors or hospitals found guilty. “If this is how they treat someone close to a legislator, one can only imagine what ordinary patients go through,” she said.
NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule demanded a law ensuring no mother is denied treatment during pregnancy. “The government must take this matter seriously and conduct a thorough investigation. Hospitals should not deny urgent medical care to patients over financial issues,” she said.
Other political leaders, including NCP (SP) MP Amol Kolhe and state party president Jayant Patil, also called for action against the hospital.