Thiruvananthapuram, 18 Feb (H.S.):A gynaecologist at Nedumangad District Hospital has been placed on compulsory leave following the death of a newborn during a Caesarean section procedure, triggering protests and an official probe by the Health Department.
Dr. Bindu Sundar, who led the surgery, has been directed to go on leave pending the outcome of an investigation. A medical team from the Government Medical College is scheduled to visit the hospital to conduct a detailed inquiry into the incident.
The action comes after Health Minister Veena George ordered an urgent investigation and instructed the Director of Health Services to submit a comprehensive report. According to hospital superintendent Sumi K.V., a preliminary report was handed over to the Health Department.
The tragedy occurred after Niranjana, a native of Palode and nine months pregnant, was admitted to the hospital for a routine check-up. Doctors advised immediate admission, and she was shifted to the labour room around 4 a.m. As labour did not progress, a Caesarean section was performed at about 2 p.m. The baby was delivered but reportedly developed breathing complications soon after and died.
Hospital authorities stated that respiratory distress was the cause of death. However, the infant’s father, Binil, has raised serious allegations against the medical team. He claimed that Dr. Bindu Sundar initially denied performing the surgery, but others present in the operation theatre confirmed that she had conducted the procedure.
The incident sparked protests by relatives and local political workers, including members of the Congress party, who staged a demonstration in front of the hospital superintendent’s office demanding strict action.
Revenue Divisional Officer Jayakumar visited the hospital following the unrest and assured the family that the allegations would be thoroughly investigated. He stated that appropriate action would be taken if lapses were found in the treatment provided.
With public outrage mounting, the Health Department’s inquiry is expected to examine medical records, surgical procedures, and staff statements to determine whether negligence played any role in the newborn’s death.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
