The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): Delhi Lt Governor VK Saxena has mandated a thorough investigation by the Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) into the registration and regulatory management of private nursing homes across the national capital. This directive follows a tragic incident in which six newborns lost their lives in a fire at a neonatal hospital.
In a note addressed to the chief secretary, Saxena expressed his severe concern over the incident, stating, “I have taken a very stern view in the matter. Though this is a transferred subject, in larger public interest, I am forced to step in, on account of the lack of seriousness on part of authorities entrusted with these responsibilities.”
The Lt Governor directed the ACB to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the registration processes of nursing homes in Delhi. The probe aims to identify how many nursing homes are operating without valid registrations and to assess whether those with valid registrations are complying with the norms outlined in the Delhi Nursing Homes Registration Act, 1953, and its associated rules.
According to the Delhi Police FIR, the fire, which occurred at a neonatal hospital in Vivek Vihar, was caused by the explosion of five oxygen cylinders. The hospital was found to be operating without a proper license or clearance from the Fire department.
The ACB investigation will also verify if the Health department conducts a 100 percent site inspection before granting or renewing nursing home registrations. It will examine if there is a proper checklist to ensure facilities meet safety norms and possess the required medical infrastructure and professional staff as mandated by law. Additionally, the probe will look into any potential complicity and misconduct by Health department officials.
Saxena noted that there are 1,190 nursing homes in Delhi, with more than a quarter operating without valid registration. He highlighted that many nursing homes have never applied for registration yet continue to operate, and even those with valid registrations might not meet the necessary safety and regulatory standards as prescribed by law.
“In the matter at hand regarding the tragic fire and nursing home … the ACB is directed to undertake a comprehensive inquiry into the registration of nursing homes in the city to assess how many nursing homes are functioning without valid registrations and whether those which have valid registration are complying with prescribed norms as provided under Delhi Nursing Homes Registration Act, 1953, and the rules made thereunder,” Saxena emphasized.