Lokayukta orders probe into Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology

Lokayukta probes Bengaluru’s Kidwai Oncology for lapses, citing drug shortages, staff gaps, and hygiene issues. Action report due April 24 hearing

The Karnataka Lokayukta has launched a suo motu investigation into alleged irregularities and administrative lapses at the Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology in Bengaluru. The move follows an anonymous complaint highlighting mismanagement at the state‑run cancer hospital.

Justice B.S. Patil, the Lokayukta, directed officials to provide detailed explanations and constituted a team from the judicial and police wings to scrutinize records, inspect departments, and seize documents if required under search warrants.

Focus on Drug Shortages
During a hearing on February 25, hospital Director Naveen, administrative officer Harish, and accounts officer Venkateshappa appeared before the authority. The inquiry centered on the non‑availability of critical medicines, including protein‑based therapies and Trastuzumab. Hospital officials stated that correspondence had been initiated with the Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust to ensure supply. Expressing concern, the Lokayukta ordered immediate action to guarantee uninterrupted access to all essential cancer drugs, particularly for poor patients. Directions were issued to the Health and Family Welfare Department and the Trust’s Executive Director to submit compliance reports.

Streamlining Procedures
The Lokayukta also flagged procedural delays affecting beneficiaries under government health schemes such as Ayushman Bharat and Arogya Karnataka. Officials were instructed to simplify pre‑authorisation processes for therapies and follow‑up treatments to prevent hardship. Coordination with the Health Department was emphasized to eliminate administrative hurdles and ensure timely care.

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Staffing Challenges
An earlier inspection on September 26, 2025, revealed an acute shortage of oncologists. Despite a government‑fixed salary of ₹1.20 lakh per month, specialists were reluctant to join, and some had resigned. The Lokayukta recommended incentives and measures to attract and retain talent, including engaging retired professors to strengthen the workforce.

Cleanliness and Infrastructure
Concerns over hygiene in wards and dormitories were also raised during the September visit. While the hospital reported an 80% improvement after corrective steps, the Lokayukta insisted on achieving complete compliance with cleanliness standards.

Next Steps
After reviewing submissions from the Medical Education Department, Health and Family Welfare Services, and hospital administration, the Lokayukta directed them to file a detailed action‑taken report. The matter will be heard again on April 24, when progress on drug supply, staffing, and infrastructure improvements will be assessed.

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