Shillong: The A’chik State People’s Front (ASPF) has called for an investigation into a case of alleged medical negligence at Jengjal Sub divisional Hospital in West Garo Hills, where a surgeon reportedly left a bandage inside a patient’s abdomen during surgery. In a memorandum submitted to Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh on Wednesday, the ASPF detailed the incident, which occurred in January 2024. The patient, Mensila N Marak from Lower Nengsa, North Garo Hills, underwent a caesarean section at the hospital, performed by Dr Suzie Paul Francis.
ASPF general secretary Bernita Marak stated that the surgeon’s negligence critically endangered the patient’s life, leading to severe pain, discomfort, and complications. “The bandage left inside the patient during surgery caused her significant distress,” said Marak. The ASPF has demanded an immediate investigation into the incident, urging the authorities to hold Dr Francis accountable for her actions. “It is imperative that cases of medical malpractice are addressed promptly to prevent similar incidents in the future,” the group stated.