The Bombay High Court Takes Action on Maternity Home Audit
In a recent court hearing, the Bombay High Court took significant steps towards ensuring the safety and quality of care at civic-run maternity homes within the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) limits. This decision came in response to a heart-wrenching plea filed by the husband of a 26-year-old woman who tragically passed away in April 2024 while delivering a baby at a BMC-run maternity home in Bhandup.
The widower’s claims shed light on the dire conditions within the facility, citing a lack of essential facilities, the use of mobile phone torchlight during surgical procedures, and the refusal to provide crucial medical records. This prompted the court to appoint an eight-member panel of distinguished doctors to conduct a thorough audit of all civic-run maternity homes.
A Call for Accountability and Improvement
Advocates Gayatri Singh and Swaraj Jadhav, representing the widower, highlighted the deplorable state of the maternity home in Bhandup, emphasizing the absence of electricity, inadequate staff, and frequent power outages. Their impassioned plea for justice and reform culminated in the court’s decision to form the audit panel.
The panel, consisting of eminent medical professionals such as Dr. Kamaxi Bhate, Dr. Padmaja, and Dr. Reena Vani Cooper, boasts a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of women’s health. Additionally, members like Brinelle D’Souza, Sonya Gill, and Sangeeta Rege bring invaluable perspectives on public health and women’s rights to the table.
A Ray of Hope for Maternal Health
Purnima H Kantharia, representing the hospital and BMC, assured the court that the audit would adhere to the strict guidelines of the Labour Room Quality Improvement Initiative, a central government initiative aimed at reducing preventable maternal and newborn mortality. This commitment to upholding standards and ensuring accountability speaks volumes about the importance of prioritizing maternal health and safety.
As the audit unfolds over the coming weeks, the findings and recommendations of the panel are poised to spark crucial reforms and improvements in the functioning of civic-run maternity homes. The legacy of the woman who tragically lost her life will not be forgotten, as her story serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for better healthcare practices and oversight in maternal care facilities.
In conclusion, the Bombay High Court’s proactive stance on this critical issue sets a powerful precedent for ensuring the well-being of expectant mothers and newborns in civic-run maternity homes. By holding institutions accountable and advocating for systemic change, we move one step closer to a future where every woman receives the quality care and respect she deserves during the vulnerable and transformative journey of childbirth.
