Health authorities in Uttar Pradesh have ordered an investigation after a woman accused a government doctor in Muzaffarnagar of worsening her 14-year-old daughter's leg injury following a dispute over an alleged bribe. The allegations, first reported by News18, have sparked concerns about patient rights and accountability in public healthcare facilities.
According to the complaint, the girl underwent surgery on her right leg at the district hospital around six weeks ago. Her mother, Reshma, alleged that hospital staff demanded ₹25,000 for the procedure despite instructions from district authorities to provide treatment free of cost.
Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Sunil Tiwari said officials would conduct a detailed inquiry into the matter and take strict action if any negligence or misconduct is established.
Reshma, a widow, said she could not afford the amount requested by hospital staff and initially faced difficulties obtaining treatment for her daughter. She subsequently approached the District Magistrate for assistance.
According to her account, the District Magistrate directed the Chief Medical Officer to ensure that the child received treatment without charge. However, Reshma alleged that hospital staff continued to seek payment and eventually collected ₹8,000 while assuring her that the remaining amount could be paid later.
The family claims the demands continued even after authorities instructed the hospital to provide free treatment.
The dispute escalated during a subsequent hospital visit, according to Reshma.
She alleged that the operating doctor called her daughter in for a follow-up examination and forcibly bent the girl's knee during the check-up. Reshma claimed her daughter screamed in pain and that she heard a cracking sound coming from the injured leg.
The mother further alleged that her daughter's condition deteriorated after the incident. She said her complaints were ignored when she attempted to raise the issue with hospital authorities.
Seeking action in the matter, Reshma approached the district collectorate along with her daughter and submitted a formal complaint.
Reports cited by News18 state that the 14-year-old girl is mentally unwell. Reshma has urged authorities to investigate the incident thoroughly and hold those responsible accountable if wrongdoing is found.
Responding to the allegations, CMO Sunil Tiwari said it would be inappropriate to reach conclusions before hearing all sides involved in the case.
Tiwari stated that health officials would conduct a detailed investigation into the allegations and examine all relevant facts. He added that authorities would take strict action if the inquiry uncovers negligence, misconduct, or any violation of medical protocols.
(Rh/ARC)