Bengaluru: A surprise inspection by the Karnataka Lokayukta at KC General Hospital in Malleswaram on Friday uncovered shocking mismanagement and corruption, exposing the dire state of one of Bengaluru’s prominent government healthcare facilities.
Prompted by numerous public complaints, the investigation revealed a host of alarming issues affecting patient care and hospital operations.
Key findings included allegations of hospital staff demanding bribes for patient admission. In one disturbing instance, a pregnant woman seeking immediate care late at night was reportedly denied admission until a bribe was paid.
Staff and Equipment Shortages
The inspection revealed severe staff shortages and negligence. Of the five doctors scheduled to begin duty at 9 a.m., only one had arrived by 10 a.m. Patients also reported being asked to purchase medicines externally, despite the hospital having them in stock.
The hospital’s infrastructure was in a dismal state. The pediatric ICU had only one functioning ventilator, while critical equipment like ECG machines in the maternity ward and Doppler devices were non-operational.
Deplorable Hygiene and Basic Amenities
Hygiene was another major concern. There was just one toilet available for up to 1,750 patients, and drinking water facilities were inadequate. Expired medicines remained undisposed, and the pharmacy operated irregularly, with medicines listed as unavailable found in stock.
Mandatory Compliance and Next Steps
The Lokayukta also observed non-compliance with mandatory government office protocols, including the absence of a nameplate displaying the Lokayukta helpline.
Justice Patil, leading the inspection, has ordered a thorough investigation by judicial and police teams to compile a detailed report. He assured the public that all complaints would be addressed and those responsible for the hospital’s shortcomings would face accountability.
