Unregistered Bihar Clinics Promise Moon, Deliver Death

The Patna High Court has expressed grave concern over the "regular feature" of unregistered private nursing homes in Bihar allegedly exploiting families during childbirth. These illegal facilities are accused of promising "the moon" while charging hefty fees, yet often lack even the most basic medical necessities and specialist doctors.

In a recent case, a mother died during childbirth at an unregistered nursing home in Kaimur district. The court noted that such tragic incidents, where parents leave with both a newborn and a lifeless body, have become distressingly common. The district administration and civil surgeon's offices are criticized for allowing these unregistered clinics to operate unchecked.

The court granted anticipatory bail to the nurse-petitioner, who owned the unregistered facility, on the condition that she deposit Rs 1 lakh for the orphaned child's future education. Further directions were issued to provide the child with free education and health insurance, underscoring the state's failure to ensure proper healthcare standards.