Kozhikdoe , 04 June (H.S.):A 46-year-old man who was undergoing treatment for kidney stones at the Government Medical College Hospital in Kozhikode has died, with his family alleging that medical negligence, including surgery on the wrong kidney, led to his death.

The deceased, Rejith, a resident of Vanimel in Kozhikode district, had been receiving treatment for kidney stones at the hospital. According to his family, he underwent his first surgery in August last year and a second procedure in April this year.

Family members alleged that doctors operated on Rejith’s right kidney during the initial surgery even though the stone was located in his left kidney. They claimed that complications developed after the procedure, with infection and pus formation occurring on the side where the first surgery had been performed.

The family further alleged that a second surgery was later carried out on the left side without their consent. They contend that the series of procedures and the alleged lapses in treatment severely affected Rejith’s health and ultimately resulted in his death.

The allegations have triggered strong protests from relatives, who have accused the hospital authorities of gross negligence and demanded a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the treatment.

As a mark of protest, the family has so far refused to accept Rejith’s body. They have insisted that the government and health authorities conduct a detailed inquiry and fix responsibility for the alleged medical errors before the body is released for final rites.

The incident has sparked concern over patient safety and treatment protocols at one of Kerala’s premier government hospitals. Relatives said they would continue their protest until assurances are provided regarding an impartial probe into the case.

Hospital authorities had not issued an official response to the allegations at the time of filing this report. It remains unclear whether an internal investigation has been ordered.

The death has once again brought the spotlight on allegations of medical negligence in public healthcare institutions and renewed calls for greater accountability and transparency in patient care.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman