Allegation of Bribe Demand at SKMCH Sparks Uproar, Nursing Staff Accused of Seeking ₹3,000 to Hand Over Newborn, Inquiry Ordered
Muzaffarpur: A serious allegation of corruption has surfaced from Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) in Muzaffarpur, where members of a patient's family alleged that nursing staff demanded money to hand over a newborn baby after delivery. The incident created a commotion inside the hospital premises and raised fresh concerns over the functioning of government healthcare institutions.
According to the allegations, the nursing staff demanded ₹3,000 from the family before handing over the newborn. The family claimed that after negotiating, they paid ₹1,700, but despite making the payment, the baby was not handed over immediately. This led to an argument between the attendants and hospital staff, which soon escalated into a major protest inside the hospital.
The matter eventually reached the local police, who intervened to calm the situation. Following police intervention, the allegedly collected money was returned to the family. The hospital superintendent has since ordered an inquiry into the incident.
Family Alleges Illegal Demand for Money
According to the family members, they had completed all necessary medical formalities following the birth of the baby girl. However, when they approached the nursing staff to take custody of the newborn, they were allegedly asked to pay ₹3,000.
The family claimed they expressed their inability to pay the full amount. After discussions, they allegedly paid ₹1,700, hoping the child would be handed over without further delay.
However, when the newborn was still not handed over, the family members protested and accused the nursing staff of demanding illegal gratification.
Uproar Inside the Hospital
As news of the alleged demand spread, a large number of attendants and visitors gathered at the hospital ward. Heated arguments reportedly broke out between the patient's family and hospital employees.
The commotion disrupted normal activities in the ward for some time. Several attendants expressed anger, alleging that demands for unofficial payments in government hospitals are not uncommon and that such practices create unnecessary hardship for poor families.
Hospital security personnel attempted to restore order, but the dispute continued until police arrived at the scene.
Police Intervention Helps Defuse Situation
After receiving information about the incident, local police reached SKMCH and spoke separately with both the patient's family and hospital staff.
Police officials worked to calm the situation and facilitated discussions between both sides. During the intervention, the allegedly collected ₹1,700 was returned to the family.
Following the refund, the immediate tension eased, although family members continued to demand strict action against those responsible.
Hospital Administration Orders Inquiry
Taking serious note of the allegations, the SKMCH Superintendent ordered an internal inquiry into the matter.
The inquiry committee has been directed to determine whether any hospital employee demanded or accepted money in violation of official rules. Statements from the patient's family, nursing staff, and other witnesses are expected to be recorded during the investigation.
Hospital authorities stated that appropriate action would be taken if any employee is found guilty after the inquiry is completed.
Questions Raised Over Transparency in Government Hospitals
The incident has once again raised concerns about transparency and accountability in public healthcare institutions.
Government hospitals are expected to provide treatment and related services without unauthorized charges. Allegations of illegal demands for money not only damage the credibility of healthcare institutions but also place additional financial burdens on patients and their families.
Healthcare experts say such complaints should be investigated promptly to maintain public trust in government medical facilities.
Demand for Strict Action
Following the incident, several local residents and patient attendants demanded strict disciplinary action against anyone found responsible.
They argued that hospitals should remain places where patients receive compassionate care rather than face unnecessary financial pressure. They also urged authorities to strengthen monitoring mechanisms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Some attendants suggested that complaint counters and helplines should be made more accessible so that patients can immediately report such issues.
Administration Assures Fair Investigation
Hospital officials have assured that the inquiry will be conducted impartially and transparently.
They stated that if the allegations are substantiated through evidence, disciplinary proceedings will be initiated in accordance with service rules. At the same time, officials emphasized that all parties involved would be given an opportunity to present their version before any conclusion is reached.
The administration also appealed to the public to report any irregularities directly to hospital authorities rather than relying solely on verbal complaints.
Importance of Ethical Healthcare Practices
Medical professionals emphasize that ethical conduct is fundamental to healthcare services. Government hospitals, in particular, serve a large number of economically weaker patients who depend on affordable and transparent medical care.
Any allegation of unauthorized payments can undermine public confidence in the healthcare system. Therefore, timely investigation and appropriate corrective measures are essential to ensure accountability and improve service quality.
A controversy erupted at SKMCH in Muzaffarpur after the family of a newborn alleged that members of the nursing staff demanded ₹3,000 to hand over the baby. The family claimed they paid ₹1,700, yet the child was not immediately handed over, leading to a heated protest inside the hospital. Police intervened, after which the money was reportedly returned. The SKMCH Superintendent has ordered an official inquiry into the allegations, and further action will depend on the findings of the investigation. The incident has once again highlighted the need for transparency, accountability, and ethical practices in government healthcare institutions.
