Manipal Hospital in Kharadi, Pune, allegedly withheld the body of a deceased patient, for approximately six hours due to an unpaid medical bill

Manipal Hospital in Kharadi, Pune, allegedly withheld the body of a deceased patient, Rambhau Jadhav, for approximately six hours due to an unpaid medical bill of ₹1.75 lakh. Jadhav, a 54-year-old farmer, had been admitted on May 4 for an angioplasty procedure, which was not performed; instead, a pacemaker was temporarily fitted. He passed away on the morning of May 6. The hospital reportedly presented the family with a bill of ₹3.3 lakh, later reduced to ₹1.75 lakh, and refused to release the body until payment was made. The body was eventually handed over after media intervention and a partial payment of ₹50,000.

In response to the incident, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) issued a show-cause notice to Manipal Hospital, citing violations of the Maharashtra Nursing Homes Registration Act, 1949, and its 2021 amendments. The PMC emphasized that hospitals are legally prohibited from withholding bodies over unpaid bills and must handle such situations with compassion and professionalism. The hospital has denied intentionally delaying the release, stating that the time taken was due to completing necessary formalities.

This incident has prompted the PMC to issue a broader directive to all private hospitals and nursing homes within its jurisdiction, reinforcing that under no circumstances should deceased patients’ bodies be withheld over payment disputes. The civic body has warned that non-compliance could lead to penalties, including the suspension of hospital registrations.

The Media Times.Live

The Media Times – Unfiltered. Unbiased. Unstoppable.

The Media Times stands as a pillar of fearless journalism, committed to delivering raw, unfiltered, and unbiased news. In a world saturated with noise, we cut through the clutter, bringing facts to the forefront without agenda or compromise.From hard-hitting investigative reports to thought-provoking analysis, we cover politics, healthcare, business, technology, entertainment and global affairs with an unwavering commitment to truth. Our team of dedicated journalists and experts works relentlessly to challenge narratives, expose realities, and hold power accountable.At The Media Times, we don’t just report the news—we shape conversations, spark change, and empower the public with knowledge.