Abhijit Chaliha, Guwahati: In a landmark decision underscoring the importance of accountability in healthcare, the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) has directed GNRC Hospital in Guwahati to pay ₹20 lakh in compensation to a patient who suffered life-altering consequences due to alleged medical negligence. The ruling, delivered on April 30, 2025, pertains to Consumer Complaint No. 581 of 2014 filed by Takam James, a resident of Arunachal Pradesh. The complaint accused three doctors at the hospital—Dr. Navanil Barua, Dr. Bivan Bihari Dey, and Dr. Monoj Agarwal—of gross negligence during treatment, resulting in severe health complications and permanent disabilities. According to the complaint, James underwent treatment at GNRC Hospital that led to long-term suffering and the need for extensive medical care. The aftermath forced him to travel to multiple hospitals across India, including the renowned Vellore Medical College (VMC) in Tamil Nadu, in search of better care. Even today, he remains dependent on constant medical attention and medication. Though James initially claimed ₹12.4 crore in damages, the Commission—comprising Hon’ble Subhash Chandra and Hon’ble AVM J. Rajendra (Retd.)—found the claim to be unsubstantiated by the available documentation. However, the Commission acknowledged the trauma, suffering, and substantial financial burden faced by the complainant and ruled in his favor. The three doctors have been held jointly and severally liable to pay ₹20 lakh within one month from the date of the order. Failure to do so will attract an interest of 12% per annum on the delayed amount. Additionally, the Commission ordered the payment of ₹50,000 to cover litigation costs. This judgment sends a powerful message about the duty of care expected from medical professionals and institutions. It reinforces patients' rights to seek legal recourse when harmed by negligence and highlights the need for transparency and responsibility within the healthcare system. The decision offers hope and validation to those who have long struggled with the consequences of medical malpractice in silence.
0 Comments