The Pune district administration has launched an investigation into the death of Tanisha Bhise, a pregnant woman who was allegedly denied admission by Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital due to the family’s inability to pay a large advance. The incident has sparked outrage and political reactions, prompting the formation of a three-member inquiry committee to probe the circumstances surrounding her death.
According to the victim’s relatives, hospital authorities demanded an advance of ₹20 lakh for treatment, and despite arranging ₹3 lakh within an hour, the hospital allegedly refused to admit her. Her condition worsened, and she began bleeding while waiting for care. “No one helped us for three hours,” said her sister-in-law Priyanka Patil, adding that the family was forced to seek help from another hospital.
The controversy has led to protests, including vandalism at a private clinic belonging to a doctor associated with the hospital. Tanisha’s husband is reportedly a close aide of BJP MLC Amit Gorkhe, who has called for strict action against the hospital staff and monthly audits of such healthcare institutions. Gorkhe also claimed he contacted hospital authorities directly, but his plea was ignored.
Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule termed the incident “unfortunate” and stated that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has personally intervened. “Strict action will be taken. Such negligence will not be tolerated,” he said.
Shiv Sena MLA and Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant suggested that if the case qualifies as “murder,” appropriate legal action would follow. “The CM and Deputy CMs are taking this case seriously,” he said.
In response to the accusations, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital issued a press note defending its conduct. An internal four-member committee found that the patient, identified as Ishwari Sushant Bhise, had a history of high-risk pregnancy and had not consistently followed up with hospital appointments. The hospital stated that the family was informed of the potential NICU costs for premature twins and advised to pay what they could. According to the hospital, the patient left without informing staff, despite medical advice to stay under observation.
The Pune District Collector, Jitendra Dudi, has ordered the inquiry committee to submit its report within two days. Based on the findings, further actions will be taken under the standard operating procedures (SOPs) governing medical conduct.
The tragic incident has intensified calls for more transparent and compassionate healthcare practices, especially concerning emergency care and financial accessibility in private hospitals.
