What Led to the Death of a Newborn at Guwahati Medical College?
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Synopsis
The tragic death of a newborn at GMCH has led to a police investigation and the arrest of seven staff members. With allegations of extortion and negligence, the Chief Minister's response highlights the urgent need for accountability in Assam's healthcare system.
Key Takeaways
- Seven arrests made in connection with the infant's death.
- Allegations of extortion from patients.
- Chief Minister demands an inquiry and accountability.
- New SOPs to improve neonatal care.
- Criticism of hospital's negligence in handling patients.
Guwahati, Aug 19 (NationPress) The Assam Police has initiated a dual investigation into the heartbreaking loss of a 15-day-old baby at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), resulting in the arrest of at least seven individuals on Tuesday.
According to insiders, multiple complaints have surfaced alleging that some lower-level staff members were soliciting payments from patients in exchange for medical services. Consequently, police apprehended seven trolley-pullers related to this matter.
“A case has been filed against GMCH personnel for extorting money from patients. Seven individuals have been detained, and the investigation is ongoing,” stated DCP Guwahati, Mrinal Deka.
Earlier today, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted that an inquiry would be conducted, promising strict penalties for anyone found culpable in the incident.
He informed reporters, “I have contacted the Guwahati Police Commissioner regarding the investigation. The police will examine the CCTV footage, and if any staff member is found negligent, we will take stringent measures. This is a tragic event, and my condolences are with the grieving family.”
Sarma visited GMCH late Tuesday night following the incident and expressed profound sorrow over the event. He criticized hospital officials for their “unacceptable negligence.”
“Despite having adequate apparatus and a lower patient count, three infants were accommodated on a single bed. This is intolerable,” Sarma asserted.
The Chief Minister announced the suspension of the nurse on duty and ordered a comprehensive inquiry. A committee of three senior doctors has been assigned to review CCTV footage, interrogate staff, and submit a report within three to four days.
Rejecting overcrowding as a valid justification, Sarma highlighted that Assam currently has 14 medical colleges and an appropriate number of staff members.
He instructed GMCH administrators to extend an apology to the bereaved family and enforce strict safety measures.
“I have obtained information from the principal, indicating that there were only 26 newborns in the unit, and therefore, this incident should not have occurred due to overcrowding,” he stated.
The Chief Minister also mentioned that Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) would soon be implemented across all medical colleges in Assam to avert overcrowding in ICUs and to enhance neonatal care.
In a shocking turn of events, a newborn girl tragically died, and two others suffered injuries after allegedly falling from an ICU bed at GMCH on Monday. The deceased infant, daughter of Smita Deka and Utpal Bordoloi, was receiving phototherapy for jaundice at the time of the incident.
Reports indicate that three infants were placed on a single bed in the phototherapy area, despite several machines being idle. The overcrowding reportedly caused the infants to slip, leading to severe head injuries for one of them.
While two of the babies were discharged without injury, the girl succumbed to her wounds.
Point of View
I emphasize the critical need for accountability in healthcare systems. The tragic incident in Assam underscores systemic issues regarding patient care and the ethical obligations of medical professionals. Our focus must remain on preventing such occurrences in the future while supporting the affected families.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the Gauhati Medical College?
A 15-day-old infant tragically died in the NICU due to alleged negligence and overcrowding.
How many people were arrested?
Seven individuals, including lower-ranked staff members, were arrested in connection with the incident.
What actions is the government taking?
The Chief Minister has ordered an inquiry and announced that SOPs will be implemented to prevent similar incidents.
Was overcrowding a factor in the incident?
Although overcrowding was initially suggested, the Chief Minister stated there were only 26 newborns in the unit at the time.
What reforms are being proposed?
Standard Operating Procedures for neonatal care are set to be introduced across all medical colleges in Assam.
