Ludhiana – Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Balbir Singh has ordered the immediate suspension of a gynaecologist at Khanna Civil Hospital following an alleged case of medical negligence that led to the death of a newborn after a C-section delivery.
According to a PTI report, the minister also warned that the doctor’s medical license could be revoked and that legal action may follow, pending the outcome of a detailed investigation.
The incident occurred when the gynaecologist reportedly failed to attend to a critical delivery case despite being informed in time by the on-duty medical officer. As per the official statement, the doctor was absent during the emergency without any prior notice, prompting public outrage and a formal inquiry.
The patient, who had been receiving antenatal care at Khanna Civil Hospital for the past nine months, arrived in active labour at around 8:00 PM. However, despite her regular treatment at the facility, she was referred to another hospital at the time of delivery.
In the absence of the designated gynaecologist, Senior Medical Officer (SMO) Dr. Maninder Singh Bhasin stepped in to perform an emergency C-section. While the mother was saved, the newborn unfortunately could not be revived.
A three-member committee—including SMO Civil Hospital Khanna and two specialists—was constituted to investigate the matter. Their report concluded that the gynaecologist had failed to handle the case with due seriousness.
Minister Balbir Singh reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy on medical negligence, stating, “Any negligence in patient care is unacceptable and will face strict consequences.”
Responding to questions about doctor shortages in Doraha and Payal hospitals, the minister mentioned that around 3,000 healthcare workers have been recruited recently and that 1,000 more doctors will soon be inducted.
He also highlighted plans to enhance 24×7 maternal and emergency care at district and highway-adjacent government hospitals and announced the establishment of 10–12 advanced hospitals across Punjab for specialized treatments such as cardiac surgery, organ transplants, and orthopedic care.
