Mumbai: Cooper Hospital Faces Row After Women in Burqas Allegedly Stopped from Entering
Mumbai, 1st September 2026: A controversy has erupted at Mumbai’s Dr RN Cooper Municipal General Hospital after women wearing burqas were allegedly stopped from entering the hospital premises and reportedly told that “babies get stolen” because of such attire.
The incident has triggered criticism and raised concerns over alleged discrimination against women based on their clothing and religious identity.
According to reports, the women were prevented from entering the hospital while wearing burqas. They allegedly questioned the restriction, following which they were reportedly given an explanation linking the attire to incidents of child theft.
The allegation has sparked outrage, with critics questioning whether hospital authorities can restrict visitors based on their clothing. The incident has also prompted demands for clarity and an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the alleged remarks.
Cooper Hospital, one of Mumbai’s prominent civic-run healthcare institutions, is yet to see clarity emerge on whether the restriction was an official policy or the action of individual security personnel.
The matter has now drawn public attention, with concerns being raised about discrimination, dignity and equal access to public healthcare facilities. Further details and an official response from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and hospital authorities are awaited.
