NHRC issues notices to Union Health Secretary over conditions of patients awaiting treatment

NEW DELHI: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the Union Health Secretary and Delhi Chief Secretary over the reportedly pathetic conditions of patients awaiting treatment in the hospitals here.

The commission has also sought a report on the matter within four weeks.

"Taking a serious view of the pathetic condition of the patients awaiting treatment in Delhi Hospitals, as reported by media, NHRC has issued notices to the Secretary, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Chief Secretary, Delhi Government calling for reports on the steps being taken to address this precarious situation," the commission said in a statement today.

NHRC is shaken up with the shocking tales of hundreds of patients waiting for the medical attention, some of whom are even at the risk of death due to lack of timely medical care, it said.

The commission has further observed that the Right to Healthcare is a basic human rights and the state has the obligation to fulfil this right of citizens.

Noting that it is fully aware of the practical aspects and the difficulties encountered by the Government in discharging this constitutional obligation, NHRC said it cannot be a mute spectator, when a large number of people face serious hardships and impediments in their struggle to realise their Right to Healthcare, waiting for their turn in front of hospitals.