Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune has faced intense criticism and public outrage following the death of a pregnant woman, Tanisha Bhise, who was allegedly denied admission due to non-payment of an advance deposit of ₹10 lakh. The incident has sparked widespread protests, with political parties and citizens alike demanding accountability from the hospital. As the controversy unfolds, the hospital's reputation hangs in the balance, with many questioning its commitment to charitable healthcare.
Tanisha Bhise, the wife of BJP MLC Amit Gorkhe's secretary, was taken to Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital on March 28 due to complications in her pregnancy. Her family claims that despite offering to pay ₹2.5 lakh upfront, the hospital refused admission, insisting on a full advance payment of ₹10 lakh. The family then shifted her to another hospital, where she delivered twins but succumbed to post-delivery complications on March 31.
The incident triggered massive protests outside the hospital, with political parties staging demonstrations and demanding strict action against the hospital administration. Protesters blackened the hospital's board, threw coins at staff, and hurled ink at security cabins, expressing their anger over the alleged negligence.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Public Health Minister Prakash Abitkar have initiated separate inquiries into the incident. A high-level committee has been formed to investigate the allegations and ensure that charitable hospitals adhere to their obligations. The hospital has also set up an internal committee, which has cleared its doctors of negligence allegations, citing that the patient did not follow medical advice and failed to report for necessary antenatal check-ups.
Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital has denied the allegations, stating that Tanisha Bhise had been a patient since 2020 and was advised against pregnancy due to health risks. The hospital claims it offered partial payment options but was not approached for emergency admission. However, the family disputes these claims, maintaining that the hospital's demand for an advance payment was the primary reason for shifting her to another facility.
