Hyderabad Hospital Faces Rights Panel Scrutiny

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The Telangana State Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) has taken formal action against Hyderabad’s Gandhi Hospital, citing alarming conditions that pose serious risks to patient welfare and human dignity. In a notice issued to hospital superintendent Dr. C.H.N. Raj Kumari, the commission outlined numerous failures in basic infrastructure and hygiene.

The hospital, one of the largest government-run medical facilities in the state, has reportedly faced persistent elevator malfunctions, making it especially difficult for patients with limited mobility, staff, and medical students to access upper floors. With lifts out of service for extended periods, many have been forced to climb multiple flights of stairs, often in distressing conditions.

The TGHRC also highlighted widespread sanitation concerns. Reports allege that the kitchen, which supplies food to patients, is infested with rodents. Accumulated piles of broken beds, the presence of stray dogs within patient wards, and a general state of neglect have raised questions about the hospital’s adherence to public health and safety norms.

In its formal communication, the commission noted that the conditions at Gandhi Hospital may constitute a violation of patients’ right to healthcare and dignity. The hospital administration has been given until October 27 to submit a comprehensive explanation and improvement plan. Failure to respond adequately could result in further legal consequences.

This is not the first time Gandhi Hospital has faced scrutiny. The facility has been under periodic criticism from civil society groups and health rights advocates over its deteriorating infrastructure and slow response to complaints. However, the TGHRC’s formal involvement marks a significant escalation.

Patient families and residents have expressed frustration over the situation. The hospital is supposed to heal, not harm. But these conditions are inhumane, said a visitor whose relative is currently admitted to the facility.

Sources within the hospital, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed internal awareness of the issues but cited funding shortages and delayed maintenance contracts as key reasons for the continued decline. Some staff have also voiced concerns about safety and morale under the current conditions.

Public health experts say that the situation at Gandhi Hospital reflects broader systemic problems affecting many government hospitals in India, including overcrowding, budget constraints, and weak accountability mechanisms.

The TGHRC’s intervention aims to hold authorities accountable and prompt corrective measures. The commission has stated that further neglect may lead to stronger legal and administrative action to safeguard the rights and dignity of patients.

As the deadline for the hospital’s response approaches, public attention remains focused on whether the administration will act decisively to address the glaring issues or face mounting legal and reputational fallout.