Mumbai, July 10, 2026: A tragic incident involving the alleged negligence at the Dabhad Primary Health Centre in Thane district, which reportedly led to the deaths of a tribal woman and her newborn, sparked a strong discussion in the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Friday.
The issue was raised during Question Hour by Legislative Council member Chitra Wagh under Question No. 9581. Participating in the discussion, Shiv Sena leader and MLC Dr. Neelam Gorhe highlighted the shortcomings in healthcare services across Maharashtra’s tribal regions, the lack of essential infrastructure for doctors, and the need for effective implementation of government welfare schemes. Public Health and Family Welfare Minister Prakash Abitkar responded by outlining the government’s ongoing initiatives to improve healthcare delivery in tribal areas.
Dr. Gorhe stressed that the state’s ‘Maher Ghar’ scheme, which provides safe pre-delivery accommodation and financial assistance to pregnant women, should effectively reach every eligible beneficiary. She urged the government to strengthen its implementation to ensure better maternal healthcare outcomes.
Drawing from her recent visit to Palghar district, Dr. Gorhe also emphasized the urgent need to provide residential facilities for doctors serving in remote tribal areas. She said adequate accommodation and basic infrastructure are essential to attract and retain medical professionals and improve the quality of healthcare services.
She further recommended involving local tribal women in spreading awareness about government welfare schemes in tribal languages to ensure better outreach and participation. Dr. Gorhe also called for strict action against individuals or groups found misleading tribal communities.
Responding to the discussion, Minister Prakash Abitkar informed the House that the government is prioritizing the construction of residential facilities for doctors in tribal areas. He added that appropriate action has already been taken in the Dabhad Primary Health Centre case in accordance with established rules and assured the House that the state government is taking concrete steps at multiple levels to strengthen healthcare services in tribal regions.
