Incident Overview:
In a tragic case of alleged medical negligence, 28-year-old Gita Murmu and her newborn reportedly died after being denied timely emergency care at Namsai District Hospital, Arunachal Pradesh. The North East Human Rights Organization (NEHRO) has filed a formal complaint with the Arunachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commission (APSHRC).
Sequence of Events:
- Gita Murmu went into severe labour around 8:30 PM on 28 September and was rushed to Namsai District Hospital by her family, arriving around 9 PM.
- The hospital allegedly had no emergency doctor on duty, and a nurse issued a referral slip to Assam Medical College, Dibrugarh, without consulting a doctor.
- Despite an ambulance being available on-site, the family was reportedly told no driver was available. They were handed a fuel coupon of Rs 1,500 and asked to arrange private transport.
- During the 25–30 minute journey in a private vehicle, the woman delivered her baby, but the newborn did not survive.
- On reaching Doomdooma Hospital, Assam, initial treatment was provided, and she was referred to Tinsukia/Assam Medical College due to severe bleeding. However, no emergency ambulance was arranged for the night transfer. Tragically, the mother died en route from excessive bleeding.
Allegations by NEHRO:
- Unavailability of an emergency doctor at critical hours.
- Arbitrary referral without medical evaluation.
- Denial of ambulance and paramedic support despite availability.
- Neglect in providing essential medical equipment during transfer.
- Failure of hospital administration to ensure emergency maternal care.
- Violation of basic right to health and life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
Demands and Actions:
NEHRO has urged the APSHRC to:
- Take suo motu cognisance of the incident.
- Initiate an independent investigation into the conduct of hospital staff and administration.
- Direct the Health Department to ensure 24/7 emergency services, functional ambulance facilities, and preventive measures to avoid such tragedies.
- Order compensation for the bereaved family for violations of their right to health, dignity, and life.
Summary:
This case highlights critical lapses in emergency maternal healthcare in a government facility, raising serious concerns about patient safety, hospital administration, and the need for strict oversight to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
