Mumbai: In a surprising turn of events, Ganesh Kendre, the 25-year-old patient at the center of an alleged insurance fraud scandal, has denied all accusations, including claims that he was admitted to two different hospitals simultaneously. Instead, Kendre has shifted the blame onto Mira Speciality Hospital, accusing one of its doctors of fabricating the entire incident.
Patient Denies Allegations, Blames Mira Hospital
Kendre, an electrician from a poor background, insisting, “I was only admitted to Unity Hospital and never to Mira Speciality Hospital. The doctor there is lying about my admission.” He claimed that the insurance claims were filled by his friend, not him, and that he was unaware of any technicalities related to the claims process.
Hospital Defends Its Actions
Mira Speciality Hospital, which was implicated in the fraud case, expressed shock at Kendre’s denial. Dr. Chaitanya Ahire, Director of the hospital, stated, “It is outrageous that a patient who was under our care and even collected documents for his insurance claim is now denying his admission. We provided all possible assistance to this patient, especially since we are a new hospital catering to a large number of poor and BPL-category patients.” Dr. Ahire further revealed that Kendre had later returned to collect discharge documents, which were allegedly misused for the fraudulent claim.
Fraudulent Claims Investigation
The fraud was uncovered by Dr. Ashish Agarwal’s investigative team, which confirmed Kendre’s presence at both Unity Hospital and Mira Speciality Hospital during the same period—October 18 to 22, 2024, at Mira Speciality, and October 19 to 22 at Unity. Kendre had filed overlapping insurance claims for both admissions, totaling Rs 42,000. Initially, both hospitals had confirmed his presence, but after the fraud was uncovered, Kendre withdrew one of the claims, which investigators interpreted as an admission of guilt.
Dr. Agarwal stated, “We have all the required documents showing that Kendre was admitted to both hospitals simultaneously. It’s shocking that he now denies these claims. This case highlights the need for tighter regulations to prevent such frauds, which often involve hospital insiders.”
Background of the Case
The controversy first emerged when Kendre sought reimbursement for overlapping hospital stays, leading to suspicions of coordinated fraud. Investigations revealed that Kendre paid his bills in cash and used receipts from both hospitals to file separate claims. Maharashtra Medical Council President, Dr. Vinky Rughwani, called it a “clear case of fraud” and pledged action if hospital staff were found complicit.
As the investigation continues, authorities are considering whether criminal charges should be filed against Kendre and any hospital insiders involved in the scheme.
