The Uttar Pradesh government has cancelled the licences of 178 private hospitals following inspections triggered by more than 500 complaints. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak informed the Assembly that 59 of these licences were later restored after appeals before the competent authority.
In addition, cases were registered against 281 hospitals for alleged violations of norms, while 533 facilities were seized and notices were issued to 1,542 hospitals directing them to improve compliance. The action came in response to a question raised by Atul Pradhan of the Samajwadi Party.
The government said there is currently no policy to regulate consultation fees or standardise diagnostic charges in private hospitals. However, it highlighted that free treatment is available in government facilities and beneficiaries under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana can receive cashless treatment up to Rs 5 lakh in empanelled hospitals, including coverage for senior citizens under a related scheme.