The Patna High Court has issued a series of directions to strengthen healthcare regulation across Bihar following the death of a pregnant woman after a post-delivery blood transfusion at an unregistered private hospital in Piro, Bhojpur district. The incident, which left a newborn without her mother, has sparked judicial intervention to prevent similar tragedies.
Court Calls for Stricter Regulation of Small Hospitals
A single-judge bench led by Justice Rajiv Roy directed the state health department to fast-track the creation of strict regulatory guidelines for all hospitals in the state with one to forty beds. These establishments, often operating without adequate oversight, were identified as needing immediate attention to protect patient safety.
State Informs Court About New Oversight Committees
In its affidavit, the Bihar government informed the court that two high-level committees—headed by the directors-in-chief of health services—have been formed to conduct periodic inspections of both private and public clinical establishments. The court stressed the need for regular monitoring to ensure compliance with clinical establishment norms.
Tragic Case That Sparked the Petition
The directives stem from a case involving a woman who delivered a baby girl on January 12 and died soon after, allegedly during a blood transfusion at a facility later found to be unregistered and non-compliant. Following her death, the woman’s father-in-law filed a criminal case at the Piro police station, prompting a legal battle.
Hospital Operators Seek Anticipatory Bail
Fearing arrest, the operators of the hospital approached the Patna High Court seeking anticipatory bail. The court heard their petition while also acknowledging the broader issue of unregulated medical practices in the state.
Pre-Arrest Bail Granted with Conditions
Justice Roy granted anticipatory bail to the petitioners but imposed specific conditions. Among these was a direction to the couple to voluntarily create a fixed deposit of two lakh rupees in the name of the infant who lost her mother, ensuring some financial security for the child.
Directions for Child’s Education and Health Support
The court went a step further, instructing the state government to issue a certificate facilitating free education for the child at Simultala Residential School or another appropriate institution. Additionally, the government has been asked to provide health insurance to safeguard the child’s medical needs.
Call for Systemic Reform in Healthcare Oversight
By issuing these directives, the Patna High Court has highlighted the urgent need for systemic reforms in Bihar’s healthcare sector, particularly in ensuring that small hospitals operate legally, safely, and under proper supervision to prevent avoidable loss of life.
