Pune: PMC Issues Strict Warning To Hospitals: Don’t Hold Dead Bodies Over Pending Bills
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Pune, May 10, 2025 — The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued a strict directive to all private hospitals, nursing homes, and medical establishments within its jurisdiction, warning against the illegal and unethical practice of holding deceased patients’ bodies over unpaid medical bills.
The health department has emphasized that, as per the Bombay Nursing Homes Act, 1949 and the Maharashtra government’s notification dated January 14, 2021, no hospital is allowed to delay the release of a body once medico-legal formalities are completed. Rule No. 11 (j) and (l) of the said notification clearly prohibit such actions, PMC said in an official communication.
Manipal and Poona Hospitals Under Scrutiny
This notice follows two recent cases where hospitals allegedly detained bodies due to pending dues. On April 7, a show cause notice was sent to Manipal Hospital in Kharadi for allegedly withholding the body of a 54-year-old patient for eight hours. A similar notice was issued to Poona Hospital on April 28 in another case of alleged mishandling and delay in handing over a deceased patient’s body.
A senior health officer in PMC, stated, “In case of a patient’s death, once legal procedures are done, the body must be handed over to the family. Hospitals cannot withhold it for bill-related issues under any circumstances.”
Legal and Ethical Obligations for Healthcare Providers
Chief of PMC’s Health Department, reinforced that hospitals must treat all patients with compassion, regardless of financial status. “Every hospital is legally bound to provide basic emergency care and to act with dignity and professionalism, especially in sensitive matters like a patient’s death,” the officer said.
The officer warned that violations will attract strict disciplinary actions, including cancellation of registration or other penalties under the Bombay Nursing Homes Act.
PMC’s Final Word
Through the latest circular, PMC has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on this matter. All private medical facilities must comply with existing healthcare laws and uphold the dignity of deceased patients and their families.
