BJP-led govt's indifference has turned Maharashtra hospitals into death traps: Congress' Nana Patole

File Photo/PTI

The state of government hospitals in Maharashtra has come under severe criticism following a series of deaths due to alleged medical negligence and drug shortages. The incidents have reignited concerns about the state's healthcare system, with blame being placed on the BJP-led government.

In the wake of the recent tragedy at a government hospital in Nanded, where 31 patients, including newborns, lost their lives within a span of 48 hours, and another 10 deaths at Ghati Hospital in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, including two newborns, the public has expressed outrage. These incidents have led to accusations of indifference on the part of the government.

Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee President Nana Patole, in a statement, strongly condemned the incident, stating, "It has once again become clear that the Shinde-Fadnavis-Pawar government in the state is shamelessly neglecting its responsibilities. It is very disturbing that these deaths are happening due to a lack of medicine. Doesn't the government have money for its own events and campaigns, but not for purchasing medicines for the common man?"

Patole further criticized the public health system in the state, highlighting corruption and a lack of resources. He pointed out shortages of doctors, staff, and essential medicines in government hospitals, as well as the poor maintenance of equipment. "Government hospitals have become death traps," Patole declared.

Also read: State's health on ventilator: MNS chief Raj Thackeray slams Maharashtra government over Nanded deaths

One of the allegations raised against the government is that the Department of Public Health and the Department of Medical Education failed to procure medicines on time, resulting in a return of allocated funds of 600 crores in 2022. The BJP government's promise of starting free health services in the state from August 15 has faced backlash, as concerns about inadequate healthcare provision persist.

Patole questioned the response to a previous tragedy in Thane Government Hospital, where 18 deaths occurred in a single night. He demanded accountability beyond suspensions of individual medical workers, suggesting that action should be taken against the responsible ministers and senior officials of the ministry. He also called for the dismissal of the Medical Education Minister and the Public Health Minister.