Pune: Health Directorate Issues Notice to Sahyadri Hospital After Couple Dies Following Liver Transplant
Deccan, 26th August 2025: The Directorate of Health Services (DHS) has served a notice to Sahyadri Hospital, Deccan, after a liver transplant surgery ended in tragedy with both the recipient and the donor – a husband and wife – dying within a span of seven days.
Dr. Nagnath Yampalle, Deputy Director of Health, confirmed that the notice was issued on Sunday (August 24). “We have sought a detailed explanation from the hospital regarding the circumstances leading to the deaths. Organ transplant surgeries require strict adherence to safety protocols, and the seriousness of this case cannot be ignored,” he said.
Private hospitals in Maharashtra are mandated to obtain authorization from the Health Directorate before performing organ transplants, with licenses valid for five years. Officials said the matter has been taken seriously as it is rare and alarming for both donor and recipient to die within such a short period.
The deceased have been identified as Bapu Balakrishna Komkar (48), a resident of Hadapsar, who underwent the liver transplant and died on August 15, and his wife Kamini (42), who had donated part of her liver and passed away on August 22. Post-mortem examinations were carried out at Sassoon Hospital, and reports are awaited.
Family members have alleged negligence on the part of Sahyadri Hospital during and after the procedure. Speaking to reporters, a relative said, “We mortgaged our flat and spent nearly Rs 20 lakh for this surgery. Instead of saving lives, both patients were lost. The children have been left without parents, and we want criminal action against the hospital.”
Health authorities have initiated a probe to determine whether medical lapses occurred during surgery or in post-operative care. Officials said the inquiry will examine compliance with medical guidelines, the hospital’s preparedness, and the quality of monitoring provided to both patients.
“This incident has raised serious questions about patient safety in private hospitals performing high-risk organ transplants. Accountability will be fixed once the investigation is complete,” Dr. Yampalle added.
Statement from Sahyadri Hospitals:
“We had received a notice from the Deputy Director of Health, and the hospital has already submitted its detailed response. Some additional information is also sought, to which we will be sharing our response.
We shall extend our fullest cooperation to the authorities and remain committed to transparency and upholding the highest standards of patient care.”
