Lack of coordination criticized by Bombay HC as cured inmates return to Thane mental hospital

Bombay HC has expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of coordination among government departments, resulting in a situation where individuals declared cured continue to be confined in state mental health institutions due to their families refusing to accept them.

The court's concern arose when it was informed that three inmates from the Thane Mental Hospital were returned to the institution instead of being placed in Halfway Homes, a transition facility. This scenario highlights the pressing issue of the rehabilitation process for individuals who have overcome mental health challenges but face hurdles in reintegration into society.

The division bench of Justices Nitin Jamdar and Manjusha Deshpande criticized the coordination gaps and emphasized the need for a comprehensive framework to address the situation. They directed the principal secretary of the Public Health Department, serving as the chairperson of the State Mental Health Authority, and the principal secretary of the Persons with Disabilities Welfare Department to conduct a joint meeting.

The objective is to formulate an effective plan to ensure the smooth transition and acceptance of cured individuals back into their families and communities. This development occurred during the hearing of a petition filed by psychiatrist Dr. Harish Shetty, represented by advocate Pranati Mehra. The petition shed light on the unfortunate plight of patients who, despite being cured, find themselves languishing in mental hospitals or facing societal challenges.