Mumbai: A shocking scandal at Kurla’s Fauzia Hospital and Fauzia Chemist has come to light, sparking outrage among residents who accuse the facility of endangering thousands of lives through fraudulent practices. The exposé, led by former State Minority Commission Chairperson Haji Arafat Shaikh, has prompted a formal complaint to Health Minister Prakash Abitkar, with locals threatening a city-wide shutdown if swift action isn’t taken.

Grave Allegations Surface
The hospital stands accused of employing unqualified Unani and homeopathic doctors—lacking MBBS or MD credentials—to treat patients. Haji Arafat Shaikh cited harrowing cases where incorrect treatments led to patient deaths or severe illnesses. Compounding the issue, patients are allegedly forced to purchase medicines exclusively from Fauzia Chemist, with external prescriptions strictly prohibited. In a bizarre twist, the chemist reportedly sells biscuits, vegetables, and eggs alongside drugs, raising serious questions about its legitimacy. Residents claim the hospital prioritizes profit over lives, exploiting vulnerable patients.

Illegal Construction and Official Collusion?
The hospital’s infrastructure has further fueled public anger. Operating a hotel on the ground floor, a furnace at the back, and a hospital, canteen, and gym upstairs, the setup flouts safety norms. Questions swirl around how the Fire Department issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and why ward officers, tehsildars, pollution control boards, and health officials turned a blind eye. Haji Arafat alleges that hefty bribes—amounting to lakhs—have enabled this malpractice to thrive unchecked.

Citizens’ Fury: Kurla Shutdown Looms
Furious residents have issued an ultimatum: shut down the “bogus” hospital immediately or face a Kurla bandh and chakka jam protests. Women’s groups are preparing to stage a handa morcha, while local traders and residents have formed a struggle committee to press their demands. “This is a matter of life and death for thousands,” said a spokesperson, vowing to escalate the agitation if authorities fail to act.

Health Minister Steps In
Taking cognizance of Haji Arafat’s complaint, Health Minister Prakash Abitkar has ordered an urgent investigation, promising stringent action against the guilty. Citizens are demanding criminal charges against the hospital’s management and fake doctors, alongside the revocation of its licenses.
The Fauzia Hospital scandal has reignited concerns over unregulated healthcare facilities preying on unsuspecting patients.