Hospital fined Rs 1 Lakh for Missing CCTV Footage

A Delhi consumer commission has mandated a hospital to compensate a woman with Rs 1 lakh. This decision stems from the hospital's inability to provide CCTV footage from the ward where the complainant's mother passed away.

The commission cited the absence of this crucial footage as a deficiency in service. Additionally, the panel expressed skepticism regarding the hospital's preparation of a six-page death summary within a mere six minutes of the patient's death, labeling this speed as abnormal.

The complainant's mother, aged 74, was admitted for treatment and blood pressure control. She reportedly passed away on May 27, 2023, a day after hospitalization. The family sought CCTV footage to understand the circumstances of her final moments.

The hospital defended its actions by stating that CCTV cameras were installed only in entrance and lobby areas, not within patient wards, citing privacy concerns. However, the commission found this explanation insufficient, suggesting that hospitals often avoid providing such footage, thereby raising suspicions among relatives.

While the complainant alleged medical negligence, the commission found insufficient evidence and lacked expert medical opinion to support these claims. Consequently, no action was ordered against the treating doctor. The penalty was imposed solely on the hospital for its lack of transparency and failure to provide the requested CCTV records.