Pune Pregnant Woman’s Death: Preliminary Report Highlights Negligence by Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital
Pune, 7th April 2025: Following the death of Eeshwari (Tanisha) Bhise—allegedly due to delayed treatment at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital—the administration has launched a serious investigation. A five-member inquiry committee, formed under the Pune Health Services Division, has completed an on-site inspection and submitted a preliminary report.
As the incident involves a maternal death, the case will now undergo a detailed review by the Maternal Death Review Committee. The final report will be submitted after the completion of this thorough probe, confirmed Dr. Radhakishan Pawar, who heads the inquiry panel.
Background and Response: Bhise’s death on March 31 sparked public outcry, with several organizations and political leaders raising questions about the hospital’s conduct. In response, Health Minister Prakash Abitkar directed the Deputy Director of Health Services to form the committee, which includes a gynecologist. The committee visited the hospital and submitted its preliminary findings.
Key Findings from the Preliminary Report:
The hospital failed to provide timely “golden hour” treatment.
Bhise was initially taken to Surya Hospital and later shifted to Manipal Hospital, where she died during treatment.
The hospital’s Grievance Redressal System, Charity Desk, and Public Relations staff failed to counsel the family regarding costs or help them avail benefits under the hospital’s charity scheme, despite Bhise’s eligibility.
The hospital violated the Indian Medical Council’s Code of Ethics (2002).
Given the nature of the case, the Maternal Death Review Committee will now carry out a deeper investigation.
On-Site Investigation Details: Doctors Dr. Sushrut Ghaisas, Dr. Ruchika Kamble, and Rasika Sawant had examined Bhise and recommended hospitalization. They also consulted NICU specialist Dr. Shilpa Kalani. The family was informed that the premature twins (seven months, underweight) would require two to two-and-a-half months of NICU care, estimated to cost ₹10–20 lakh. The family expressed willingness to arrange funds and admit her.
Despite Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital’s status as a charitable trust hospital, none of the involved medical staff—including Dr. Ghaisas, Dr. Kamble, Dr. Kalani, Rasika Sawant, Meenakshi Gosavi, Madhuri Pansikar, Shilpa Barve, Sachin Vyavhare, and Ravi Palwekar—initiated the process to admit Bhise under the charity scheme. This inaction has been identified as a significant lapse.
The committee has recommended that the Assistant Charity Commissioner take appropriate action in this regard.
Legal and Ethical Violations: According to medical law, emergency treatment cannot be denied, and once a case is accepted, the doctor is legally obligated to ensure continuity of care. The report highlights that Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital breached this responsibility, both legally and ethically.
Action has also been recommended under the Maharashtra Nursing Home Registration Rules, 2021, for these violations.
Inquiry Committee Members:
Dr. Radhakishan Pawar – Deputy Director, Health Services, Pune Division (Chairperson)
Dr. Prashant Wadikarr – Assistant Director, Health Services, Pune
Dr. Nagnath Yampalle – District Surgeon, Aundh District Hospital
Dr. Nina Borade – Chief Medical Officer, Pune Municipal Corporation
Dr. Kalpana Kamble – Medical Officer & Gynecologist, Health Services, Pune
