Assam Cabinet Enforces New Guidelines for Handling Deceased Bodies in Hospitals

New Regulations for Private Hospitals in Assam

Guwahati, July 11: In a significant step to honor the deceased, the Assam Cabinet has declared that private healthcare facilities and nursing homes are prohibited from retaining dead bodies due to unpaid bills.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that the Cabinet has sanctioned draft Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and regulatory measures aimed at preventing coercive actions by private medical establishments.

“Hospitals are required to release bodies within two hours after death certification, irrespective of any outstanding payments. Any delays beyond this period may lead to punitive measures, and such incidents must be reported to law enforcement and the district health authority within four hours,” the Chief Minister stated on a social media platform.

He emphasized that while hospitals retain the right to pursue legal avenues for debt recovery, they cannot obstruct families from conducting last rites.

Non-compliance will result in severe penalties, including license suspension and a fine of ₹5 lakh, with potential license revocation for repeated offenses.

Medical professionals in Guwahati have expressed support for this decision but acknowledged the need for hospitals to reassess their billing practices.

“Hospitals will have to adjust their policies to ensure that neither patients nor institutions encounter difficulties. Options like advance payments may be considered, but patient care must remain the top priority,” remarked Dr. Sashibha Barman, Deputy Medical Superintendent of Nemcare Hospitals.

Dr. Pranab Baruah, Medical Superintendent of Peerless Hospital, noted that many NABH-accredited hospitals already assist families facing financial hardships by accepting post-dated cheques or agreements to settle dues later.

Both doctors cautioned that families should not exploit this provision.

“The essence of this decision must be honored — hospitals and patients should collaborate to ensure effective and compassionate medical care,” Dr. Barman added.

Baruah pointed out that this decision will raise awareness among the public and prompt changes within hospitals.

“Hospitals that previously withheld bodies due to unpaid bills will now be discouraged from such practices,” Baruah stated.

Dr. Vandana Sinha, a specialist in critical care, described the initiative as compassionate. “As ICU doctors, we frequently handle end-of-life situations. Ensuring dignity in death is fundamental. The Chief Minister’s commitment that hospitals can seek legal recourse balances the interests of all parties involved,” she commented.

This cabinet decision aligns with Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, encompassing the right to health and medical care.

Earlier in May, the Pune Municipal Corporation issued a similar order preventing private hospitals from withholding bodies due to unpaid bills.