New Delhi– The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is launching an investigation into the death of a 72-year-old man in Bengaluru who allegedly committed suicide after being denied treatment under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

The man, identified only as a senior citizen, died on December 25 after being refused treatment at the state-run Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology. According to media reports, the hospital denied the man's Rs 5 lakh Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) coverage, claiming they were awaiting state government orders regarding the scheme.

The NHRC expressed serious concerns over the incident, stating that it could represent a violation of human rights. The Commission highlighted additional media reports alleging other beneficiaries have faced issues accessing the AB PM-JAY senior citizen scheme.

The NHRC has issued notices to the Secretary of the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and the Chief Secretary of Karnataka, demanding a detailed report within four weeks. The report should include the status of the Ayushman Bharat scheme's implementation in Karnataka and other states and territories.

The NHRC emphasized the scheme's objective to provide affordable healthcare to senior citizens, particularly those unable to afford treatment costs. The Commission underscored that denying eligible individuals access to these benefits could infringe upon their right to health and a dignified life.