Chennai,
In a strong move against alleged medical negligence, the Tamil Nadu State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has recommended criminal prosecution and immediate dismissal of a government doctor, Dr. C. Prabakar, accused of refusing treatment to a burn victim and directing her to a private hospital where he practiced. The patient later died after incurring medical expenses exceeding ₹11 lakh.
Key Recommendations by SHRC:
- Criminal case to be registered against Dr. C. Prabakar.
- Immediate termination of Dr. Prabakar from government service.
- ₹50 lakh compensation to be paid to the patient’s husband:
- ₹6 lakh by the State Government.
- ₹40 lakh to be recovered from Dr. Prabakar.
- ₹2 lakh from Senior Civil Surgeon Venkateshwara Sri.
- ₹1 lakh each from nurses Kumareswari and Gurulakshmi.
Case Background:
- Incident occurred on November 27, 2018, in Kovilpatti, Thoothukudi district.
- The victim was initially taken to a Primary Health Centre.
- Dr. Prabakar, instead of providing emergency care, advised her to go to a private hospital where he was affiliated, citing personal leave.
- The victim’s husband alleged threats and overcharging during the treatment.
- A government inquiry confirmed negligence and misconduct, stating the patient was “maltreated” and indirectly denied timely government care, leading to her death.
Systemic Reforms Advised:
SHRC member V. Kannadasan further urged the state government to:
- Monitor private practice by government doctors more strictly.
- Prevent forced referrals of patients from public hospitals to private clinics.
- Track doctor presence during duty hours at government facilities.