*New Delhi:*
Severe mismanagement at the Sports Injury Centre (SIC) of Safdarjung Hospital—operating under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW)—is causing hardship for both patients and staff.
According to internal sources, it has been nearly two years since surgeries began in the new building, yet several essential medical and administrative facilities still remain non-functional.
Free Medicines Service Completely Shut Down
Sources reveal that the drug dispensing counter meant for economically weak patients has not been made operational to date.
As a result, patients are being forced to purchase even basic and essential medicines from outside, significantly increasing their financial burden.
Charges Taken in the Name of ‘Free Surgeries
Several staff members allege that surgeries which are supposed to be completely free of cost are resulting in patients being made to spend between ₹5,000 to ₹7,000.
Before the operation, patients are handed a list of medicines and equipment and are instructed to buy them from the market.
Severe Shortages Inside Operation Theatres (Status as of 11 October 2025)
A senior resident, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated that basic OT equipment such as shaver and cautery machines have been unavailable for the past six months.
In desperation, a few shavers were borrowed from private vendors without any official documentation or approval.
Additionally, a specialised device used for taking bites during shoulder surgery—still under warranty—was sent to the vendor for repair six months ago but has not been returned.
Questions Raised Over Purchase of Expensive Equipment
Sources further allege that shaver machines were procured with such technical specifications that only high-priced blades could be used with them.
This is despite the fact that the market offers compatible and more affordable blades for the same machines.
These procurement choices have now raised questions regarding transparency and intent.
Director Accused of Engaging in Private Practice
According to hospital insiders, current Director Dr. Deepak Joshi has shown little interest in resolving the hospital’s systemic issues and is instead involved in private practice.
Government doctors receive a Non-Practice Allowance (NPA), which strictly prohibits any form of private practice.
Sources claim that on 1 October 2025, Dr. Joshi performed a surgery at MASSSH Hospital in South Delhi, allegedly assisting Dr. Sudhir Seth.
It is also reported that he frequently performs surgeries outside and sometimes uses hospital medicines and equipment for private cases.
Action Against Staff Who Raised Objections
Insiders report that Sister-in-Charge Narinder Kaur, who objected to these irregularities, was transferred out of the operation theatre shortly thereafter.
Demand for Investigation Intensifies
Demands for a serious and comprehensive investigation are growing both within and outside the hospital.
While neither the Health Ministry nor the hospital administration has issued an official statement yet, sources confirm that complaints have already reached the ministry, and a probe is likely to begin soon.
