Alappuzha: Four doctors in Alappuzha have been booked following accusations by a couple that they failed to detect genetic abnormalities in their baby during prenatal scans. The accused include two doctors from Kadappuram Government Women and Child Hospital and two from private diagnostic labs in the area.
The case was registered on Tuesday after the parents, Anish and Surumi, lodged a complaint alleging negligence. The First Information Report (FIR) filed by Alappuzha South police charges the doctors under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for endangering life and personal safety.
Surumi underwent multiple scans between July and November 2024 at private centers, Midas Health Care and Shankar’s Health Scans and Diagnostic. Despite abnormal fetal development, the couple claimed the doctors assured them the reports were normal. However, after Surumi delivered on November 8 at the Government Medical College Hospital (MCH), Vandanam, the newborn was diagnosed with severe internal and external deformities.
Surumi, 35, had been referred to MCH after experiencing reduced fetal movement and heartbeat. She alleged that despite regular prenatal care at Kadappuram Women and Child Hospital, doctors failed to inform her of any potential genetic issues.
One of the accused doctors defended her actions, stating she only treated Surumi during the early stages of pregnancy and that no significant abnormalities were evident in the scans. The diagnostic centers involved also denied any mistakes, claiming their reports were accurate.
Health Minister Veena George has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the matter. A team led by the Additional Director of the Health Department will examine the allegations, with a focus on the diagnostic centers. The Minister assured that appropriate action would be taken if lapses are confirmed.
