Bhubaneswar: A 13-month-old boy died after reportedly being prescribed wrong medicines at Capital Hospital, triggering allegations of medical negligence against a woman doctor. The bereaved family has demanded her suspension and arrest, accusing her of refusing to admit the critically ill child.
Family’s Allegations and Sequence of Events
According to the child’s parents, their son, who had fever and breathing difficulties, was first taken to the hospital on Sunday. Doctors conducted an X-ray and prescribed medicines before sending the boy home. When his condition worsened, the family rushed him back around 3 am on Monday and pleaded for admission. However, the doctor allegedly declined, citing unavailability of beds, and instead prescribed medicines. Minutes after consuming the medication, the child reportedly died.
Hospital and Health Department’s Response
Hospital authorities have firmly denied the allegations, insisting that there was no negligence in the treatment. Director of Health Services, Amarendra Mohanty, stated, “After reviewing all the prescriptions, we have found that no wrong medication was prescribed. However, the cause behind the patient’s death can only be established after a post-mortem examination. We are conducting an impartial investigation into the matter.”
Public Outrage and Protests
The incident sparked massive outrage, with locals storming the hospital premises and raising slogans against the staff. Protesters also blocked the road leading to the airport, demanding strict action against the doctor. The situation was eventually brought under control after police and hospital officials intervened, and the crowd dispersed.
CM Announces Compensation
Expressing grief over the tragedy, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi conveyed condolences to the family of the deceased child, Ayushman Sahu. He announced a compensation of ₹4 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF) to support the grieving family.
