Wadia Hospital Crisis: Bombay HC slams Govt on delay of release of funds

"Do people require medical aid or statues to rid themselves of ailments and diseases?" the court asked.

Public health has never been a priority for the government, the bench said, adding that the "chief minister is busy inaugurating bridges".

"We thought there are new faces at the political helm, then all these matters won't come to court. This does not auger well," the court said.

The court also said that in a city like Mumbai, which is considered as the country's commercial capital, people from the poorer section of society are refused admission to a charitable hospital.

"This is disgusting. How can people, mainly women and children, be refused admission to a hospital? Children are dying and the state machinery is not doing anything in states like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat... should we have the same situation in Maharashtra?" Justice Dharmadhikari said.

The court said due to lack of funds, hospitals are finding it difficult to cater to the needs of patients.

"These patients cannot afford private hospitals as they are mainly from the poor section of society. They require urgent medical attention. In such circumstances, the state government is obliging nobody by making statements that funds have been sanctioned," the court said. The BMC informed the bench that it will release Rs 14 crore for Bai Jerbai Wadia Hospital for Children.

The court posted the matter for further hearing on Friday, when the government will have to state by when thefunds sanctioned will be released