Guwahati, 19 August (HS): The Assam State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission has ordered Dispur Polyclinic & Hospital in Guwahati to pay ₹5,65,713 as compensation to a woman who suffered a serious burn injury while recovering after childbirth at the hospital.

The case relates to an incident on August 14, 2018, when the complainant underwent a caesarean delivery at the hospital. Following the procedure, she was moved to a recovery room, where an electric heater placed near her reportedly caused a severe burn injury to her right leg while she was in a semi-conscious condition.

In its judgment, the Commission held the hospital responsible for the incident, observing that the injury had occurred within the hospital premises. It further noted that the hospital failed to substantiate its defence with adequate evidence and concluded that the complainant were entitled to compensation.

The awarded amount comprises ₹40,713 for medical expenses, ₹1 lakh for pain and suffering, ₹2 lakh for mental and physical suffering, ₹1 lakh for loss of amenities of life, ₹1 lakh for the inconvenience caused to the child as the mother was unable to breastfeed and ₹25,000 towards litigation expenses.

The Commission has directed the hospital to deposit the compensation amount with its Registry within six weeks of the judgment. In case of non-compliance, the amount will carry interest at 9% per annum from the date of judgment until it is realised.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash