Mumbai: Citizens and local leaders in Andheri have demanded that the fully-equipped Seven Hills Hospital be brought under the control of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), alleging an attempt to hand it over to industrialist Mukesh Ambani. Opposing any move towards privatization, the Andheri Vikas Samiti has announced an intense protest on November 6 at 11 AM outside the hospital premises.
Providing details, former Deputy Mayor of Mumbai and Congress Vice President Rajesh Sharma said, “For the past several months, we have been pursuing the matter with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, BMC authorities, and relevant departments to ensure that Seven Hills Hospital is taken over by the municipal corporation. Despite repeated follow-ups, no response has been received, which is extremely concerning. This government seems more interested in protecting corporate interests than safeguarding the health rights of Mumbaikars.”
Sharma added that Seven Hills Hospital has the potential to become an advanced public medical research and teaching facility, including international-standard healthcare services along with a medical and nursing college. “This location is an invaluable asset for Mumbai’s healthcare future,” he said.
He further pointed out that the land on which Seven Hills Hospital stands belongs to the BMC and was leased to the hospital management. “The remaining space on the premises can also be developed for medical education. If the municipal corporation reclaims the property instead of allowing it to pass into private hands, Mumbai can get a spacious, world-class public hospital,” Sharma stated.
Located at a prime spot in Andheri, the hospital property is estimated to be worth ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 crore. “This land must be viewed from a humanitarian perspective, not a commercial one,” Sharma stressed. “Considering Mumbai’s rapidly growing population and rising healthcare needs, BMC must take immediate possession of the hospital and provide cutting-edge medical services to its citizens.”
