J&K High Court Takes Suo Motu Action on Critical Healthcare Crisis in Jammu

Cardiac services halted at Government Super Speciality Hospital due to unpaid dues under Ayushman Bharat scheme; Court intervenes to safeguard patient welfare.

In a landmark move, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of a severe healthcare crisis affecting cardiac services at the Government Super Speciality Hospital (GSSH) in Jammu. The Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice Arun Pall and Justice Rajnesh Oswal, responded to the alarming situation where essential cardiac procedures have been suspended due to financial dues under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogaya Yojana (PMJAY).

The court’s intervention comes after reports indicated that the hospital's operations were severely disrupted when suppliers of critical cardiac devices, such as stents and pacemakers, halted supplies over unpaid dues amounting to approximately Rs. 30 crores. This financial impasse has led to the suspension of all cardiac procedures, placing numerous patients at risk.

Highlighting the sensitivity of the situation, the court directed its Registrar (Judicial) to file a public interest petition titled 'Court on its own motion v. Nemo.' This step underscores the court's commitment to addressing the urgent need for medical services and infrastructure in the region.

The ongoing Public Interest Litigation (PIL), filed by Citizens Forum, seeks a mandamus to compel the state government to enhance medical facilities and regulate private health centers in line with national guidelines. Despite the submission of fifteen status and compliance reports by the authorities, the court noted the lack of tangible progress.

The court has deferred further proceedings to December 29, 2025, allowing the Amicus Curiae, Mr. S S Ahmed, to consolidate relevant reports and submit recommendations. This development reflects the judiciary's proactive approach in safeguarding public health and ensuring government accountability.

Bottom Line:

Public Interest Litigation (PIL) - Mandamus sought to command the government to provide adequate medical facilities and infrastructure in urban areas and regulate the functioning of nursing homes and private medical institutes in accordance with governmental guidelines.

Statutory provision(s): Public Interest Litigation, Mandamus, Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogaya Yojana (PMJAY), Suo Motu Cognizance

Citizens Forum v. State of J&K, (Jammu And Kashmir)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2819845