Special Correspondent
Pune – A heartbreaking incident has sparked outrage across Pune after a woman was reportedly denied treatment at Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital due to the inability to pay a deposit. She was taken to another hospital where she delivered twins but tragically passed away. The incident triggered widespread protests by various political parties, and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis termed the act “insensitive” and ordered a formal inquiry committee.
In response, Dr. Dhananjay Kelkar, Medical Director of Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital, issued an official statement expressing deep regret and announced a major policy shift. “From now on, the hospital will not take any deposit from patients during emergency admissions – whether in the emergency room, delivery department, or pediatric emergency,” said Dr. Kelkar. This resolution has been passed unanimously by the hospital’s board of trustees and management and is being implemented with immediate effect.
Dr. Kelkar emphasized that Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital was founded in 2001 with inspiration from Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar and has always upheld values of integrity, transparency, and service to the underprivileged. “We have never accepted sponsorships from pharma companies, avoid commission-based practices, and ensure affordable and ethical treatment for all,” he said.
The hospital caters to over 85,000 inpatients, 500,000 outpatients, and performs 30,000 major surgeries annually. “We offer case papers for just Rs. 10 to poor patients, provide tests at 50% discount, and conduct free surgeries for those below the poverty line. All charity work is reported monthly to the Charity Commissioner,” Dr. Kelkar added.
Despite this long-standing commitment, yesterday was described as one of the darkest days in the hospital’s history. Protesters hurled coins at the public relations officers, vandalized the hospital of Dr. Ghaisas’ parents, and blackened the names of Lata Mangeshkar and Dinanath Mangeshkar in front of TV cameras. “We were deeply ashamed. Only God knows what impact this had on Lata Mangeshkar’s admirers,” he said.
Faced with public backlash, the hospital board held an emergency meeting for introspection. “Instead of focusing on political motives or public misbehavior, we reflected on where we went wrong,” Dr. Kelkar stated. He acknowledged that although the link between the hospital and the woman’s death may not be direct, it was important to examine whether the hospital responded with sensitivity.
He clarified that he personally offered the family the option to pay whatever amount they could afford, and the hospital would cover the rest. However, the family left without informing anyone. He also explained that while the hospital originally did not take deposits from patients, the rising complexity and cost of treatments over the years had led to such policies.
“We recognize that our ideals and sensitivity may have been compromised in this system-driven environment. With this new resolution, we hope to bring back compassion into emergency care. We request citizens and the honorable Chief Minister to take note of our renewed commitment,” Dr. Kelkar concluded.
