Delhi Government to Act Against Fortis Hospital in Shalimar Bagh Over Youth's Death
The Delhi government announced on Thursday that it will initiate action against Fortis Hospital in Shalimar Bagh following a district administration inquiry into the death of a stabbed youth. The inquiry allegedly found multiple irregularities at the facility, including lapses in patient care that delayed emergency treatment.
The inquiry was ordered by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta after a complaint was received during a 'Jan Sunwai'. The complainant alleged that the hospital demanded payment before beginning treatment on the youth, who had suffered stab injuries, and that the resulting delay in medical care led to his death.
On Thursday, an inspection team led by the Central District Magistrate, alongside officials from the Delhi Health Department, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, and the Delhi Fire Service, inspected the hospital.
The team examined CCTV footage and records maintained by the emergency department. According to the government statement, the footage showed the injured youth walking into the emergency department on his own, suggesting that timely medical treatment could have saved his life.
In addition to patient care lapses, the inspection team reportedly uncovered several other violations at the hospital. These included violations of building by-laws, unauthorised construction, deficiencies in the fire safety system, misuse of the basement, and serious lapses in adhering to standard operating procedures governing medical protocols.
Following the inspection, the Delhi government decided to initiate action against the hospital and is currently preparing a detailed inquiry report.
In response, Fortis Hospital issued a statement assuring its complete cooperation with the authorities.
"Fortis remains committed to the highest standards of patient care, clinical excellence, and regulatory compliance. We will review the details once formally shared with us and extend our full cooperation to the authorities. Patient safety and well-being continue to be our foremost priority," the hospital administration said.
