The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu Health Department to file a counter affidavit in connection with an alleged medical negligence case involving the death of a 35-year-old anganwadi worker at the Government Medical College Hospital (MCH), Ramanathapuram.
Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy issued the direction while hearing a petition filed by the deceased woman’s husband, a resident of Palkarai village in Ramanathapuram district. The petitioner has sought a detailed inquiry into the treatment administered to his wife, production of all medical records, an independent postmortem examination, and disciplinary action against the doctors allegedly responsible for her death.
Allegations of Negligence After Nasal Surgery
According to the petition, the woman was admitted to the Government Medical College Hospital for a surgical procedure to correct a deviated nasal septum. She underwent surgery on May 21 but was allegedly brought out of the operation theatre in an unconscious condition.
The petitioner claimed that she remained in a coma for nearly four weeks following the procedure and eventually died on June 16. He further alleged that hospital authorities failed to provide clear information regarding her treatment and did not furnish complete medical records despite repeated requests.
Dispute Over Medical Records and Postmortem
The petitioner also questioned the circumstances surrounding the postmortem examination, alleging that it was conducted without obtaining his consent. He contended that the procedure was arranged by the treating doctors in an attempt to shield themselves from potential legal liability.
The case has drawn public attention following protests staged by the woman’s relatives outside the Ramanathapuram Government Medical College Hospital, demanding action against the doctors involved in her treatment.
State Assures Court of Full Cooperation
Appearing for the state government, Additional Advocate General P. V. Balasubramaniam informed the court that the postmortem was conducted after proper intimation to the police. He further submitted that all medical records, from the date of admission until the patient’s death, would be indexed and produced before the court. Copies of the records would also be provided to the petitioner.
Court Allows Family to Take Custody of Mortal Remains
During the hearing, the court was informed that the deceased woman’s mortal remains had not yet been collected. Justice Chakravarthy permitted the petitioner to take custody of the body and perform the last rites. The court also directed that a compliance report be submitted regarding the matter.
Independent Medical Board and Compensation Yet to Be Decided
The High Court observed that the issue of constituting an independent medical board to investigate the allegations, as well as the question of interim or final compensation, would be considered only after the Tamil Nadu government places its version on record.
The matter is expected to come up for further hearing after the state files its counter affidavit and submits the relevant medical documents before the court.
