Maharashtra to Amend Bombay Nursing Home Act for Action Against Erring Private Hospitals
Pune, 31st October 2025: Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar on Thursday announced that the state government will soon amend the Bombay Nursing Home Act to enable strict action against private hospitals violating rules. The amendment is expected to be tabled and approved in the upcoming legislative session.
Abitkar made the announcement during his visit to the Aundh District Hospital, where he reviewed the operations of the 102, 104, and 108 ambulance service control rooms. Speaking to reporters, he said complaints against private hospitals — including prominent institutions such as Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital — have been on the rise.
“Complaints were earlier received against certain private hospitals, but due to legal limitations, we could not take strict action. Now, the Bombay Nursing Home Act will be amended to ensure accountability. The proposal will be approved in the coming session,” Abitkar said.
The minister clarified that the government is not seeking to harass hospitals but to ensure compliance. “Private hospitals must strictly follow the rules. If they violate them, they will face action, including possible criminal proceedings. The law applies equally to everyone,” he added.
Charitable Hospitals Must Implement Mahatma Phule Public Health Scheme
Abitkar also warned charitable hospitals opposing the Mahatma Phule Public Health Scheme (MPJAY) that participation is mandatory for those availing government concessions.
“Charitable hospitals that have received government benefits while registering as trusts must implement the Mahatma Phule Public Health Scheme. The Chief Minister himself has reviewed this matter. Such hospitals must extend services to patients under this scheme,” he said.
Under the Mahatma Phule Public Health Scheme, the state government covers the cost of major surgeries, including heart, lung, and organ transplants. Abitkar said only hospitals implementing the scheme will be eligible to receive payments for such procedures.
“Expensive surgeries will be covered under the Mahatma Phule Public Health Scheme. Hence, all hospitals will be required to participate in it in the coming time,” he added.
