Mumbai: KEM Hospital name change sparks political row

Mumbai: A major political stir has erupted in Maharashtra over the name of Mumbai’s iconic King Edward Memorial (KEM) Hospital, which recently completed 100 years of service. The controversy surfaced after State Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha stated that the hospital’s name, King Edward Memorial Hospital, represents British rule and no longer suits present-day India.

Founded in 1926, the hospital has served as a cornerstone of Mumbai’s healthcare infrastructure for a century, evolving from a colonial-era facility into one of India’s premier government medical centres.

However, the statement to change its name has triggered debate in political and civic circles, especially at a time when the renaming of British-era landmarks and railway stations in Mumbai is already under discussion.

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"The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) should also review the name of KEM Hospital. The name 'King Edward' is a symbol of British rule and has no relevance in present-day India," Maharashtra Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha told PTI on Thursday.

He clarified that the final decision on the issue would be taken by the municipal administration, adding that the Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College is located on the KEM hospital premises.

He issued the statement after attending the centenary programme of KEM Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College, where he also made suggestions related to patient care.

As per Free Press Journal, he said, "The reason is that this is not an Indian name; it is a British name, a symbol of colonial slavery. That is why I have expressed my views about removing it. We are in an era where we are reclaiming our national identity, and our public institutions should reflect that."

"Hospitals should make greater use of artificial intelligence in medical treatment to ensure faster and better care for patients. In serious cases, doctors should be able to connect with global experts and advanced technologies through strong communication systems," Lodha said.

The BJP leaders also suggested setting up health facilitation centres to help patients access benefits of government schemes at a single location, reducing inconvenience to patients and their families.

He further said hospitals should have digital centres where all information related to treatment, medicines and tests is available at one place to avoid repeated visits.

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