Rs.82 lakh compensation for 18 cataract surgery victims

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

The Telangana Human Rights Commission (TGHRC) has recommended a total compensation of Rs.82 lakh to 18 victims who suffered severe complications, including loss of eyesight, following cataract surgeries at Jaya Hospital in Hanamkonda under the government’s ‘Kanti Velugu’ programme in 2018.

In its order dated July 30, 2026, the Commission, headed by Dr Justice Shameem Akther, found serious deficiencies in operation theatre maintenance, hygiene, sterilisation, infection control, surgical instruments and patient safety. The Commission said the victims suffered severe Enterobacter Cloacae eye infections, prolonged treatment and immense physical and mental suffering.

The TGHRC recommended Rs.4 lakh each to 12 surviving victims and Rs.5 lakh each to the next of kin of six deceased victims. It also directed the authorities to conduct a detailed inquiry to identify the doctors, staff and officials responsible and take appropriate action. The concerned authorities have been asked to implement the recommendations and submit an action-taken report to the Commission.