Rajasthan Health and Medical Education Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar on Wednesday, 13 May chaired a high-level review meeting at Swasthya Bhawan in Jaipur, ordering a comprehensive investigation into the deaths and deteriorating health of women during childbirth at New Medical College Hospital in Kota. The minister described the incident as “deeply tragic and unfortunate” and directed that every aspect of the case be examined to determine its root causes.

Scope of the Inquiry

Khimsar instructed officials to probe all possible angles, including the quality of medicines, potential infection from operation theatres or medical equipment, and any lapses in treatment or supervision. He stressed that the investigation must yield clear findings so that corrective and punitive action could be taken wherever warranted.

Officials have also been directed to expedite laboratory analysis of samples related to medicines and medical equipment. The minister emphasised strict adherence to treatment protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all hospitals, particularly high-load facilities handling large volumes of deliveries.

Action Already Taken

Prima facie findings had already indicated lapses in treatment and supervision, the minister said. In response, three doctors and four nursing staff members have been suspended, while one UTB doctor has been dismissed. Show-cause notices have been served to the superintendents of New Medical College Hospital and J.K. Lon Hospital. Expert medical teams have been dispatched to Kota to assist in treatment and assess the ground situation.

Minister to Visit Kota Thursday

Khimsar is scheduled to visit Kota on Thursday for an on-the-spot review. He will inspect both New Medical College Hospital and J.K. Lon Hospital, interact with admitted patients and their families, and hold a detailed review meeting with senior officials. Further action, he said, would follow the findings of the final investigation report.

Senior Officials at the Review Meeting

The Wednesday meeting was attended by senior officials including Principal Secretary Gayatri Rathore, Commissioner of Medical Education Babulal Goyal, RMSCL Managing Director Pukhraj Sen, Drug Control Commissioner Dr T. Shubhamangala, Principal of SMS Medical College Dr Deepak Maheshwari, nephrology specialist Dr Dhananjay Agarwal, Principal of Kota Medical College Dr Nilesh Jain, and Additional Principal Dr Deepika Mittal.

This is not the first time Kota’s public health infrastructure has come under scrutiny. The city’s hospitals, which serve a vast catchment area across southern Rajasthan, have previously faced criticism over overcrowding and resource constraints. Whether this inquiry produces systemic reform or remains a reactive measure will depend on the final report and the government’s response to it.