Mumbai hospital ordered to fix unhygienic conditions after complaint

The Maharashtra State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has taken action following a complaint from RTI activist Chetan Kothari regarding the unsanitary conditions at St George’s Hospital. The complaint was prompted by a newspaper article that highlighted the hospital's declining hygiene standards, which were once considered exemplary. The report detailed various issues, including gutkha spit stains, broken window panes, and the presence of both medical and edible waste throughout the facility. Kothari's concerns emphasized the potential health risks posed to patients due to the unhygienic environment, which could lead to increased infections. In response, the SHRC has directed the hospital's dean and the secretary of the Medical Education and Drugs Department to take immediate action to rectify these issues. The commission has sought clarification on the steps that will be taken to improve cleanliness. In addition to addressing the immediate concerns, Kothari has made several recommendations to the government. He urged the filling of vacant Class 4 employee positions, which are crucial for maintaining hygiene standards. Furthermore, he called for a comprehensive cleanliness drive at the hospital, supervised by government officials, to restore its reputation. Lastly, Kothari has requested that the government implement long-term measures to ensure that all hospitals under its jurisdiction maintain high cleanliness standards. The SHRC's directives reflect a commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that medical facilities provide a safe environment for patients.