Bombay High Court Directs Man to Remain Present for Wife’s Discharge from Thane Mental Hospital

Bombay High Court Steps in to Ensure Discharge of Healthy Patient from Thane Mental Hospital

In a heart-wrenching case, Bombay High Court has intervened to ensure the discharge of a healthy patient from Thane Mental Hospital. The court directed a man to be present for the discharge of his wife, who he had admitted to the hospital earlier this month.

The court expressed its dismay at the situation, stating, “You can check in but you cannot check out. Unless you go (to the hospital), how will she be discharged?” This poignant statement highlights the unfortunate reality faced by the patient who is unable to leave the hospital due to the absence of the person who admitted her.

The wife’s sister filed a habeas corpus petition, claiming that her sister was being “illegally detained” by the hospital. The couple, who reside in Navi Mumbai, have a 13-year-old son with special needs. Initially, their relationship was cordial, but the wife began to notice behavioral changes in her husband, who became rude and started unnecessary fights.

The petition revealed that the husband had admitted his wife to the hospital on May 7, under the guise of taking her for their son’s CT scan. He informed the doctors that she had mental issues, leading to her admission. Despite the doctors stating that the patient could be discharged, the husband’s interference prevented her release.

The husband claimed that his wife had OCD and schizophrenia, and he did not want her near their son, passing on these alleged conditions to him. This led to a standoff preventing the patient’s discharge from the hospital.

The court’s intervention in this case sheds light on the complexities and challenges faced by individuals dealing with mental health issues. It underscores the importance of ensuring proper care and treatment for patients, as well as the need for family support and understanding in such situations.

As the legal proceedings continue, the hope is that the patient will soon be reunited with her family and receive the necessary care and support for her well-being.