Health Minister Issues Stern Advisory in Legislative Council
Belagavi: Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Monday warned private hospitals across the state against performing unnecessary caesarean deliveries for financial gain. He asserted that strict action would be taken against establishments found violating medical norms, including penalties up to ₹50,000 and possible cancellation of registration under the KPME Act.
No Complaints Received Yet, Says Minister
Responding to a query raised by JD(S) member Govinda Raju in the Legislative Council, Rao stated that no private hospitals have so far been formally identified for conducting unwarranted C-sections. He added that the District Karnataka Private Medical Establishment (KPME) Registration and Grievance Redressal Authorities have not received any public complaints on the issue.
Clear Warning to Hospitals on Violations
Despite the absence of formal complaints, the minister emphasized that the government would not hesitate to act. He clarified that any hospital found violating norms by performing avoidable caesarean procedures would face strict measures under Section 15(1) of the KPME Act. “If complaints are received, action will be taken against private hospitals that violated the rules,” he said.
Details of Penalty Under KPME Act
Section 15(1) of the Act empowers the authorities to impose penalties or cancel registrations. It states that if a private medical establishment fails to comply with directions issued under sub-section (8) of section 7, the Registration and Grievance Redressal Authority may impose a fine up to ₹50,000, extend the time for compliance, or proceed with cancellation of registration—after providing the establishment an opportunity to be heard.
Government Reiterates Focus on Ethical Medical Practices
The minister’s statement highlights the government’s growing concern over rising caesarean rates and the need to ensure that medical decisions are driven by health needs rather than commercial motives. The warning aims to reinforce ethical healthcare practices across Karnataka’s private medical sector.
