India, June 10 -- The Pune Municipal Corporation's (PMC) patient grievance helpline, launched to address complaints against private hospitals and nursing homes, has received only 13 complaints so far in 2026, raising concerns among activists and citizens over poor awareness, limited outreach and the mechanism's effectiveness.

The toll-free helpline, 1800 233 4151, was launched in April 2023 under the provisions of the Maharashtra Nursing Home Registration Act, 1949 and the Maharashtra Nursing Home Registration Regulations, 2021.

Data from the civic Health Department shows a declining trend in complaints received through the helpline. The PMC received 35 complaints in 2023, followed by 53 complaints in 2024, 37 complaints in 2025, and on...