The Rajasthan state health department has ordered an inquiry into allegations that a private hospital in Bikaner removed a woman's kidney without her consent during a sterilisation procedure. The incident came to light after 33-year-old Radha Devi filed a complaint claiming that her right kidney was missing following a tubectomy performed at Jeevan Raksha Hospital on July 11, 2024.
Health Department Forms Inquiry Committee
Chief Medical Health Officer Dr Pukharaj Sad confirmed that a committee has been constituted to investigate the seriousness of the allegation. The panel is currently recording statements from the complainant's family, questioning hospital authorities, and examining medical records. Dr Sad stated that the committee is expected to submit its report within three days, after which further action will be decided based on the findings.
Woman's Complaint and Police Investigation
Radha Devi claimed that she underwent a tubectomy at Jeevan Raksha Hospital on July 11, 2024. She alleged that after experiencing abdominal pain on April 16, 2025, she consulted a doctor and underwent a sonography, which indicated that her right kidney was missing. Following her complaint, the Bikaner police have also initiated a parallel investigation into the matter.
Preliminary Inquiry Findings
Officials noted that during the preliminary inquiry, the woman did not produce any prior sonography report or medical document confirming that both kidneys were present before the surgery. This has raised questions about whether the kidney was removed during the procedure or if the woman was born with a single kidney.
Hospital Denies Allegations
The hospital has strongly denied the allegation, stating that it is not medically feasible to remove a kidney through the small incision used in a tubectomy. Hospital authorities added that some individuals are born with a single kidney, a condition often detected incidentally during later medical tests. They expressed confidence that the inquiry will clear their name.
Next Steps
The health department committee is continuing its investigation and is expected to submit its report within three days. Based on the report, the department will decide on further action, which may include disciplinary measures or legal proceedings. The police investigation remains ongoing.
