Investigation in Limbo
Pune: The probe into the death of both donor and recipient during a liver transplant at Sahyadri Hospital, Pune, has hit a major roadblock after Sassoon General Hospital (SGH) — tasked with investigating the case — refused to proceed, citing a shortage of specialist doctors required to assess medical negligence.
SGH Declines Due to Lack of Experts
According to SGH officials, the hospital currently lacks key experts, including a gastroenterologist and a liver transplant surgeon, who are essential to conduct the investigation. Without these specialists, SGH stated that it is not in a position to evaluate the complex case.
Tragic Case That Sparked the Inquiry
The case dates back to August 15, when a 49-year-old man with advanced liver disease underwent a transplant surgery at Sahyadri Hospital’s Deccan branch, with his wife donating a part of her liver. Tragically, the patient died two days later on August 17, followed by the donor’s death on August 21, raising serious questions about post-transplant care and procedural safety.
Family Accuses Authorities of Delay
Last month, the deceased woman’s family alleged that police had failed to refer the case to SGH’s medical board on time to determine possible negligence. When the case was eventually referred, SGH declined the investigation, deepening the family’s frustration and uncertainty over justice.
Hospital Confirms Inability to Proceed
Dr Yallapa Jadhav, Medical Superintendent of SGH, confirmed sending a letter to police on Thursday stating the hospital’s inability to carry out the probe. “We need expert doctors like a gastroenterologist and liver transplant surgeon, which we don’t have. While we have private doctors on an honorarium basis, it is not appropriate to include them in the investigation committee,” he told Hindustan Times.
Health Department Steps In
Following the incident, the Maharashtra Health Department had temporarily suspended Sahyadri Hospital’s liver transplant license and ordered an expert committee to submit a detailed report within four weeks. The eight-member committee visited the hospital on September 25, 2025, and has already submitted its findings to the Director of Health Services.
Next Steps Under Review
Deputy Director of Health Services Dr Bhagwan Pawar, who serves as the committee’s member-secretary, confirmed that the report has been submitted, and a review meeting will be held next week via video conference to determine further action.
Families Await Accountability
Meanwhile, the victims’ family continues to demand accountability and transparency in the investigation. With SGH stepping back, the responsibility now lies with state health authorities to ensure that expert review and justice are not delayed any further.
