Patient Denied Care Under Ayushman Yojana: HC Seeks Centre, Delhi Govt Response

The Delhi High Court sent notices to the Central and Delhi governments after a patient was denied treatment due to the non-enforcement of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). The case, filed after a patient was denied life-saving treatment due to the scheme’s absence in the capital, highlights a glaring gap in healthcare access. 

The Patient’s Plight

The PIL, brought by activist Sunita Sharma, detailed the ordeal of a 45-year-old laborer from east Delhi who required urgent heart surgery. Despite eligibility under AB-PMJAY, which offers ₹5 lakh health coverage to economically weaker sections, the patient was turned away by a private hospital due to Delhi’s non-participation in the scheme. The family, unable to afford ₹8 lakh for the procedure, now faces dire circumstances, sparking public outrage over systemic failures.

Delhi’s Exclusion from Ayushman Yojana

Unlike other states, Delhi has not adopted AB-PMJAY due to disputes between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Delhi government and the Centre. The AAP claims its own health model, offering free treatment in government hospitals, is sufficient, while the Centre insists AB-PMJAY would expand access to private facilities. This political tug-of-war has left over 10 lakh eligible Delhiites without the scheme’s benefits, forcing many to rely on overburdened public hospitals or incur crippling debts.

Court’s Call for Accountability

The Delhi High Court, presided over by Justice Anil Sharma, expressed concern over the “denial of fundamental healthcare rights.” The bench directed both governments to explain the delay in implementing AB-PMJAY and outline steps to resolve the issue. 

A Wake-Up Call

The case underscores the urgent need for collaboration to deliver healthcare equity. As Delhi’s vulnerable await justice, the court’s intervention could pave the way for AB-PMJAY’s rollout, ensuring no patient is denied care due to administrative disputes. The nation watches as this unfolds.