Dedicated Police Outpost To Be Reinstated At Sassoon Hospital Amid Rising Security Concerns

Pune, 8th April 2025: In response to increasing incidents of security breaches, including the escape of undertrial accused, disputes among patients and their relatives, and reported misconduct within the premises, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has decided to re-establish a dedicated police outpost at Sassoon General Hospital. The hospital, a major government-run medical facility, had a police outpost in earlier years, but it was shut down some time ago.

Sassoon Hospital receives a heavy influx of patients and their relatives not just from Pune but from across western Maharashtra. It also routinely handles the medical examinations and treatment of high-profile accused in serious criminal cases from the region. A dedicated ward is in place to treat inmates brought in from local jails.

The need for strengthened security became urgent following a major scandal two years ago, when Lalit Patil, an inmate and drug trafficker, was caught operating a mephedrone racket from within the hospital premises. His accomplice was arrested near the hospital gate with mephedrone worth ₹2 crore, exposing glaring lapses in hospital security.

Moreover, the hospital frequently witnesses large crowds and tension between hospital staff and relatives of patients. There have been several instances of heated arguments and even assaults on medical personnel. These recurring issues have led to a renewed focus on ensuring security and order within the campus.

The hospital complex falls under the jurisdiction of the Bundgarden Police Station. Previously, officers from that station would respond to incidents inside the hospital, but the absence of a permanent outpost limited their reach and response time. Recognizing this gap, Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has now taken the initiative to revive the in-house police outpost.

Once operational, the new police outpost is expected to provide both a deterrent to unlawful activity and a support system for patients, their families, and hospital staff, ensuring a safer and more orderly environment at one of Pune’s most critical healthcare institutions.