Family Alleges Doctor Worsened Child’s Injury After Bribe Payment Dispute; Probe Ordered
A serious allegation of medical negligence and corruption has surfaced at a government hospital in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, where a doctor has been accused of worsening the injury of a 14-year-old girl after her family allegedly failed to pay a bribe demanded for her treatment.
According to the complaint filed by the girl’s family, the doctor allegedly demanded ₹25,000 to perform a surgical procedure on the child. The girl’s mother claimed that due to severe financial hardship, she could only arrange ₹8,000 and was unable to pay the remaining amount. The family stated that the child is mentally unwell and required urgent medical attention.
The mother alleged that treatment was initially delayed because the full amount had not been paid. Seeking assistance, she approached district authorities, following which the District Magistrate reportedly directed the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to ensure that the girl received free treatment under government healthcare provisions for economically weaker patients.
However, the family claims that despite these instructions, hospital staff continued to insist on payment. They alleged that the doctor accepted the partial amount and assured them that the remaining balance could be paid later.
Allegation of Forced Examination and Deteriorating Condition
The controversy escalated when the girl’s mother alleged that during a follow-up visit, the doctor called her daughter for an examination and forcibly manipulated her injured leg. According to the complaint, the child experienced extreme pain during the procedure, and the mother claimed she heard a cracking sound, after which the girl’s condition reportedly worsened.
The family further alleged that repeated complaints to hospital authorities went unanswered, prompting them to approach the district collectorate and seek justice through higher administrative channels.
Health Department Orders Investigation
Responding to the allegations, Chief Medical Officer Sunil Tiwari stated that it would be inappropriate to draw conclusions before hearing all parties involved. He said a detailed inquiry would be conducted to ascertain the facts and determine whether any negligence, misconduct, or corruption had occurred.
Tiwari assured that strict action would be taken if the allegations are found to be true following the investigation.
Investigation Underway
The incident has sparked concerns regarding healthcare accountability and alleged corruption in public hospitals. Authorities are currently examining the allegations, and further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
The claims made by the family have not yet been independently verified, and the doctor’s response to the allegations is awaited.
