Woman remains in private hospital for 4.5 years as family refuses to clear ₹1.5 crore bill

A woman who has been confined to a private hospital on Kolkata’s EM Bypass for nearly four and a half years due to an unpaid medical bill of around ₹1.5 crore has drawn the attention of the Calcutta High Court. The court heard the matter on Wednesday and directed a medical assessment of the woman before taking a final decision on her future.

According to details presented in court, the woman was admitted to the hospital after suffering severe injuries in a road accident more than four years ago. Following prolonged treatment, her condition improved and she is now able to carry out certain daily activities with the help of a wheelchair, although she has lost the ability to speak.

The hospital management stated that after her condition stabilised, her husband did not come forward to take her home. As the treatment and stay continued, the medical bill rose to more than ₹1.5 crore. The hospital later approached the court, saying it could no longer bear the financial burden and seeking directions to transfer the patient either to a government shelter home or back to her residence.

During the hearing, the woman’s husband told the court that he was unable to pay such a large outstanding amount and therefore could not take responsibility for her care. He also alleged negligence in the treatment provided by the hospital. The court expressed strong displeasure and questioned his moral and legal responsibility toward his wife.

To find a solution, the court directed the superintendent of Calcutta Medical College and Hospital to appoint a senior doctor to examine the woman at the private hospital and submit a detailed medical report. Based on the assessment, the court will decide whether she can be shifted to a government hospital or a shelter home. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for March 30.