Karnataka Congress Faces Escalating Pressure Following Six Maternal Deaths Post Delivery; Health Minister Calls for Public Outcry

Ballari, Dec 6 (NationPress) The Karnataka Congress government is currently under significant pressure after the unfortunate passing of yet another woman post-delivery in the Ballari district. The number of new mothers who have died following cesarean surgeries has now escalated to six.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao expressed his dismay over the situation, stating on Friday that the community should not accept such circumstances and must take a stand. "The government has already declared compensation for the affected families. We will scrutinize the reports to prevent any future fatalities," he assured.

The most recent victim has been identified as 25-year-old Sumaya, who tragically lost her life on Thursday night while receiving care at the Vijayanagara Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS) in Ballari.

The minister stressed the importance of accountability, saying, "There must be consequences for those guilty of negligence. If a healthy woman dies due to carelessness or defective medications, it is intolerable. The public must voice their anger against such failures."

Minister Rao also raised alarms regarding the pharmaceutical firm involved. "The activities of the company providing the medications are under scrutiny. These companies often operate with impunity. We are dedicated to uncovering flaws in our system and the drug procurement process," he stated.

Rao highlighted systemic problems, mentioning, "Officials responsible for medical supplies and procurement are frequently rotated within four to six months. Competent and honest individuals must be appointed to these positions."

The government has responded promptly by suspending the state drug controller and initiating legal action against the West Bengal-based company responsible for the IV fluids. A notice has been served to the Managing Director of the company, and inspections of its facilities have been conducted. The usage of all products supplied by this company, including IV fluids, has been suspended.

There seems to be a contradiction in the reports regarding the IV fluids. "While the state laboratory deemed the IV fluid unsafe, the central drug laboratory classified it as safe. We have contacted the Drug Controller of India regarding the reliability of these findings and have requested legal actions," Rao mentioned.

Sumaya, the latest victim, was admitted to VIMS on November 10. Following a cesarean section on November 12, she was given IV fluids, which led to kidney complications that ultimately caused multiple organ failure. Despite undergoing dialysis treatment, she passed away on December 5.

Before Sumaya, Rojamma, Nandini, Muskaan, Mahalaxmi, and Lalitamma also succumbed to post-delivery complications in Ballari district. These tragic events have elicited widespread concern and anger throughout the state.