Pune News: Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital Says Emergency Patients Won’t Need to Pay Deposit After Pregnant Woman’s Death

Pune: In a significant move aimed at reinforcing compassion in healthcare, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital has announced that it will no longer collect advance deposits from emergency patients. This decision comes in the aftermath of intense public and political outrage following the alleged medical negligence that led to the post-delivery death of Tanisha Bhise, a seven-month pregnant woman.

The announcement was made through an official letter issued by Dr. Dhananjay Kelkar, the hospital’s medical director and trustee. Dr. Kelkar stated that the hospital management has taken this decision after introspection and discussions with the board of trustees. The revised policy will come into immediate effect and will cover all emergency cases, including maternity and pediatric emergencies.

Allegations Spark Widespread Outrage

Tanisha Bhise, wife of Sushant Bhise—personal assistant to a BJP MLA—tragically passed away after delivering twin babies at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital. Her family has accused the hospital of negligence and delayed treatment, which allegedly resulted in her death. The incident triggered a storm in Pune, with political parties staging protests outside the hospital, raising slogans, and expressing fury.

Following these events, a government inquiry committee was formed, and a report has since been submitted. However, public anger remained unabated.

Hospital Responds with Policy Shift

Reacting to the uproar, Dr. Kelkar issued a detailed statement, calling the day of the incident “a dark and distressing chapter” in the hospital’s history. He acknowledged the wave of public emotion and criticism, saying, “Our heads hung in shame as slogans were raised and acts of vandalism occurred. What must have gone through the minds of people who revered Lata Mangeshkar, whose name this hospital bears, is beyond words.”

In the letter, Dr. Kelkar elaborated on the hospital’s founding principles — initiated in 2001 under the inspiration of Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar — including integrity, transparency, rejection of commission-based practices, and commitment to affordable care.

“Originally, Deenanath Hospital never took advance deposits. However, as the hospital grew and began handling more complex procedures and patients, it became necessary to start collecting deposits for treatment. But after yesterday’s incident, we revisited this policy,” said Dr. Kelkar.

New Emergency Policy Effective Immediately

As per the new policy:

• No emergency patient will be asked to pay a deposit, regardless of whether they arrive in the ER, maternity ward, or children’s department.
• This resolution has been approved by the board of trustees and management.
• Implementation begins with immediate effect.

Dr. Kelkar emphasized that while the hospital’s involvement in the incident is still under investigation, this moment should serve as the beginning of a more sensitive and humane approach in healthcare.

He also clarified that Tanisha Bhise’s relatives were advised they could pay as per their convenience, yet they chose to leave without informing the hospital staff.

An Emotional Appeal and Call for Understanding

In his letter addressed to the public, Dr. Kelkar emotionally reflected on the backlash. “Some protesters threw coins at our PRO staff. Others vandalized the hospital of Dr. Ghaisas’ elderly parents. People blackened the nameboards bearing Lata and Deenanath Mangeshkar’s names. It pained us deeply,” he said.

Despite the distress, he said the board chose self-reflection over blame. “Instead of focusing on the political coloring of the issue, we questioned our own shortcomings. The keyword that echoed in our minds was ‘insensitivity’,” he added.

He concluded by stating that Deenanath Hospital is committed to doing better and that the public and Chief Minister should take note of this step toward restoring dignity in healthcare.