Palakkad, 21 Feb (H.S): A 29-year-old woman who was nine months pregnant died after collapsing while under treatment at the Pattambi Taluk Hospital, sparking allegations of medical negligence and prompting a police investigation.
The deceased has been identified as Noushija, wife of Nisar Basha of Kulangara House, Thrithala, in Palakkad district. She had been admitted to the government taluk hospital on February 16 for delivery and was under observation in the maternity ward.
According to relatives, Noushija began experiencing severe pain and bleeding on Thursday, but they allege that doctors responded with assurances that her condition would be monitored. Family members claim that despite repeated requests for immediate medical attention, no decisive action was taken.
In the early hours of February 20, Noushija reportedly developed extreme fatigue and worsening pain. However, hospital authorities allegedly informed the family that further steps could be decided only after the doctor on duty arrived later in the morning. At around 10:30 a.m., she suddenly collapsed inside the hospital. Authorities later informed the family that she had suffered a cardiac arrest.
She was immediately shifted by ambulance to a private hospital in Vaniyamkulam for advanced treatment. However, doctors at the private facility reportedly stated that she had died approximately 45 minutes before arrival.
The family has accused the Pattambi Taluk Hospital of failing to provide timely and adequate care, particularly given that she was in the final stage of pregnancy. They have also alleged that hospital authorities deliberately delayed handing over medical records to the police after her death.
Based on a complaint filed by Noushija’s brother, Thrithala police have registered a case and initiated an investigation. The incident comes amid heightened public scrutiny over alleged lapses in medical care at government hospitals in Kerala.
A post-mortem examination is currently being conducted at Thrissur Medical College to determine the exact cause of death. Health department officials stated that clarity on whether there was any medical negligence will emerge only after the post-mortem report and detailed inquiry are completed.
The tragic death has triggered widespread concern in the locality, with calls for a thorough probe to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
