MLA Sana Malik Shaikh Raises Alarm Over Misuse of Free Beds in Mumbai’s Charitable Hospitals, Demands Transparency and Accountability

Mumbai: Alleging a serious lapse in the functioning of charitable hospitals across Mumbai, Anushaktinagar MLA Sana Malik-Shaikh has brought to light the systemic misuse of subsidized and reserved beds meant for economically weaker sections. Speaking through a Calling Attention motion in the Maharashtra Assembly, she urged the state government to act swiftly and decisively to ensure accountability and transparency in these institutions.

Malik-Shaikh pointed out that charitable trust-run hospitals, which receive substantial support from the government—ranging from discounted land to tax exemptions and subsidies—are legally and ethically obligated to provide free or low-cost treatment to the poor. However, she alleged that many such hospitals are not honoring their commitments, leaving underprivileged patients to fend for themselves.

Backed by data from a 2023–2024 survey conducted by India CSR in collaboration with Vikas Global Charitable Trust, Malik-Shaikh cited disturbing statistics. Despite a significant percentage of beds being earmarked for Below Poverty Line (BPL) and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) patients, actual usage remains alarmingly low.

Some key figures presented in the Assembly include:

• Bhatia General Hospital: Only 52.62% of its free beds are being utilized by BPL patients.
• Somaiya Hospital: While 99.3% of its beds are designated for EWS patients, questions remain about implementation.
• SL Raheja, Breach Candy, and Masina Hospitals: Each reported over 95% of their beds earmarked for EWS, but no concrete data on actual occupancy by eligible patients was provided.

She also raised concerns about the digital portal launched in 2024 by former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis—intended to help coordinate between hospitals, district collectors, and medical colleges to streamline treatment access for the poor. Malik-Shaikh asked whether this platform would be made public-facing, allowing patients and their families to access real-time data on bed availability.

Raising several pointed questions in the Assembly, she asked:

• Will hospitals be required to put up clear signage about free and subsidized beds at entry points?
• How will the government ensure public awareness about the availability of such beds?
• Will there be real-time digital updates to help patients locate vacancies?
• What provisions will be made for those without access to digital platforms?