NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Senior Citizen’s Suicide in Bengaluru Over Denial of AB PM-JAY Scheme Treatment.
New Delhi:
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, has intervened after a 72-year-old man reportedly committed suicide on December 25, 2024, following the denial of treatment under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) senior citizen scheme. The incident occurred at the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology in Bengaluru, Karnataka, where hospital authorities refused to provide coverage under the scheme, citing the absence of relevant State government orders.
The AB PM-JAY scheme, launched by the government to provide free medical treatment to senior citizens, particularly those who cannot afford healthcare costs, is designed to ensure better healthcare access. However, the report highlights a disturbing trend in Karnataka, with other hospitals allegedly refusing treatment under the scheme, further exacerbating the issue.
The NHRC, in its suo motu cognizance, expressed grave concern over the denial of benefits to senior citizens under the scheme, emphasizing that this may constitute a violation of their right to health and dignity. Such a denial undermines the very purpose of the AB PM-JAY initiative, which aims to provide crucial medical support to vulnerable citizens.
The Commission has issued notices to the Secretary of the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Chief Secretary of the Government of Karnataka. Both officials have been directed to submit detailed reports within four weeks, covering the implementation status of the AB PM-JAY senior citizen scheme in Karnataka and other States and Union Territories.
The NHRC’s intervention underscores the urgent need for accountability in the implementation of the AB PM-JAY scheme, ensuring that senior citizens receive the healthcare they are entitled to under the law.
