On May 23, 2025, the Allahabad High Court expressed severe concern over the conditions at Swaroop Rani Nehru (SRN) Hospital in Prayagraj. Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal remarked that the hospital's state is so poor that it would be more appropriate to refer to it as a "mortuary" rather than a hospital. The court highlighted the hospital's "pathetic condition" and the significant influence of medical mafias diverting patients to private medical setups, leaving the poor and helpless patients untreated in the government facility.

The court's observations were based on a report submitted by two amici curiae appointed to inspect SRN Hospital. Their findings revealed a lack of basic amenities, such as water, fans, and air-conditioning. Additionally, there was a noted absence of doctors in the outpatient department (OPD), and brokers from private diagnostic centers were reportedly present within the hospital premises, allegedly luring patients away for profit.

The court also referenced the recent Mahakumbh held in January-February 2025, during which approximately 66.30 crore pilgrims visited Prayagraj. Despite SRN Hospital being located just one kilometer from the mela area, the medical infrastructure was found to be in shambles. The court noted that it was by sheer luck that no major incidents occurred, given the lack of adequate medical facilities during such a massive gathering.

Justice Agarwal criticized the state and district administration for failing to provide basic medical facilities to Prayagraj residents. He also pointed out the lack of initiative from public representatives and state ministers from Prayagraj in addressing the deteriorating condition of SRN Hospital. The court emphasized that cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Gorakhpur have hospitals with capacities exceeding 2,000 beds, whereas Prayagraj has only 1,750 beds, despite hosting significant events like the Mahakumbh .

In response to these findings, the court issued several directives:

• The principal secretary of medical health was instructed to inform the state government of the court's order and present it to the chief secretary and, if necessary, the chief minister for consideration.

• The district magistrate was directed to form a team to monitor hospital staff and curb private practices.

• It was mandated that doctors attend the OPD regularly from 8 am to 2 pm, and the weekly OPD schedule be made available to the public.

The matter is scheduled for further hearing on May 29, 2025.

(Input From Various Sources)

(Rehash/Sakshi Thakar/MSM)