Kolkata: The West Bengal government suspended 12 doctors on Thursday over alleged medical negligence in the expired saline administration case that led to the deaths of a woman and her newborn. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, also the state Health Minister, described the incident as “deeply tragic and unacceptable” and announced ₹5 lakh compensation and a government job for the deceased’s family as part of damage control.
Addressing the media, Ms. Banerjee stated that those on duty during the incident would face immediate action based on two investigation reports submitted by the Chief Secretary and Health Secretary. The suspensions include the Medical Superintendent and Vice Principal (MSVP) of Medinipur Medical College and Hospital, the Resident Medical Officer, an Assistant Professor, the Head of the Department, and six postgraduate trainee doctors. The CID has been directed to investigate possible criminal charges.
The Chief Minister highlighted significant procedural lapses during the investigation, including a doctor allegedly being officially present at three surgeries in different locations simultaneously. “Such irregularities point towards medical negligence and violations of protocol,” she said.
Rising Controversy
The incident occurred when five women were administered expired Ringer’s Lactate (RL) saline during childbirth, leading to critical illness in all five. One woman, Mamoni Das, died shortly after delivering a baby, while her newborn also passed away. Three other women were transferred to S.S.K.M. Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, with two still in critical condition.
Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari criticized Ms. Banerjee, demanding accountability as she also holds the Health Ministry portfolio. Visiting the family of Mamoni Das, he accused the government of knowingly distributing poor-quality saline from Paschim Banga Pharmaceuticals, previously flagged for maternal deaths by Karnataka’s Health Department.
Doctors’ Association Reacts
The Joint Platform of Doctors condemned the suspensions, alleging that the administration was shifting blame onto medical professionals to divert attention from systemic failures. “The problem of fake medicines has been ignored for too long, highlighting a political conspiracy,” the group stated.
Government Actions
In response to mounting criticism, the government issued a directive on January 14 instructing all medical colleges and hospitals to stop using items procured from Paschim Banga Pharmaceuticals and withdraw existing stocks.
This incident has sparked debates about accountability in healthcare, highlighting concerns over the procurement and quality of medical supplies in government-run hospitals.
