Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 26: The Delhi government has decided to initiate action against Fortis Hospital in Shalimar Bagh after a district administration inquiry found multiple alleged irregularities, including lapses in patient care, in connection with the death of a youth, an official statement said on Thursday.

The inquiry was ordered by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta after a complaint received during a 'Jan Sunwai' alleged that the hospital demanded payment before starting treatment for a youth who had suffered stab injuries and that the delay in providing medical care resulted in his death.

An inspection team led by the Central District Magistrate, along with officials from the Health Department, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the Delhi Fire Service and other departments, inspected the hospital on Thursday.

According to the government, the team examined CCTV footage and emergency department records. The footage reportedly showed that the injured youth had walked into the emergency department on his own, indicating that timely medical intervention could have saved his life.

The inspection also allegedly uncovered violations of building by-laws, unauthorised construction, deficiencies in the fire safety system, misuse of the basement and serious lapses in adherence to standard operating procedures governing medical protocols.

In view of the findings, the Delhi government said it would initiate appropriate action against the hospital and is preparing a detailed inquiry report.

Responding to the allegations, Fortis Hospital said it would fully cooperate with the authorities.

"Fortis remains committed to the highest standards of patient care, clinical excellence, and regulatory compliance. We will review the details once formally shared with us and extend our full cooperation to the authorities. Patient safety and well-being continue to be our foremost priority," the hospital said in a statement.