Allahabad High Court Rejects Principal Secretary Medical Education’s Affidavit on UP Govt Hospitals, Seeks Report on 42 Medical Colleges

Swaroop Rani Hospital (File Photo)

Prayagraj, May 29, 2025 - The Allahabad High Court has rejected the affidavit submitted by the Principal Secretary of Medical Education, Uttar Pradesh, over poor conditions at Swaroop Rani Nehru (SRN) Hospital Prayagraj, citing lack of accountability and action. The court has now sought a detailed affidavit regarding the availability of basic healthcare infrastructure in all 42 government medical colleges across the state.

The Bench of Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal, while hearing a PIL filed by Dr. Arvind Gupta, directed the Principal Secretary, the SRN Hospital Superintendent, Deputy SIC, and the Prayagraj Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to appear in person on May 30 at 11:30 AM. The District Magistrate and Municipal Commissioner have also been ordered to continue anti-encroachment operations around SRN Hospital.

Despite submitting affidavits, the court observed that the Principal Secretary’s response was superficial and insufficient, labeling it as mere “eyewash.” The court expressed disappointment that he chose to file the affidavit via video conferencing rather than visiting the hospital in person to assess the dire conditions.

Officials claimed partial improvements: ICU and cardiology air conditioners have been repaired, doctors are attending OPD, and staff appointments at the post-mortem house have been made. However, the court remained unsatisfied, especially about the dilapidated condition of medical college hostels and inadequate government funding. It noted that the pediatric wing initiated in 2019 is still incomplete.

Additionally, the court raised concerns about the lack of super-specialty healthcare services in Prayagraj, especially with the upcoming Mahakumbh 2025 expected to host over 66 crore pilgrims. While the Central Government clarified that AIIMS Prayagraj has not been approved, a Super Specialty Block under PMSSY has received approval, with 233 beds and 7 operation theaters planned.

The High Court emphasized that while some steps have been taken, much more needs to be done to upgrade medical infrastructure in this major spiritual and cultural hub.