Lehragaga | A tragic incident involving the death of a two-year-old boy has triggered serious allegations of medical negligence against a Senior Medical Officer (SMO) at Lehragaga Civil Hospital. The boy’s family claims treatment was denied and delayed, leading to the child’s death.
Allegations of Negligence and Redirection to Private Clinic
According to the grieving father, the child had a high fever and was taken to the civil hospital on July 24. Shockingly, the family alleges they were advised by hospital staff to seek treatment at SMO Dr. Bansal’s private clinic at his residence in Sunam—a day earlier, on July 23.
“We were sent to Dr. Bansal’s home clinic and paid ₹200. But my child’s condition worsened overnight. When we went back the next morning, Dr. Bansal refused to even check him,” the father said.
The child tragically passed away soon after. A formal complaint has been filed at Sunam police station, but the family claims they’ve received no substantial response.
Police and Administrative Response
While Sunam DSP Harvinder Singh Khaira stated he was unaware of the case, SHO Prateek Jindal remarked that such matters fall under the jurisdiction of the medical board, not the police.
“The family has been directed to approach the civil surgeon in Sangrur, and the complaint is under review,” said SHO Jindal.
Doctor Denies All Charges
The accused doctor, Dr. Bansal, has refuted the allegations, stating:
“I don’t remember treating the child on July 23. I don’t charge consultation fees. I only help patients on humanitarian grounds.”
Broader Concerns on Private Practice and Accountability
This incident adds to a growing list of medical negligence complaints across India. In a recent case, a premature baby lost fingers due to mishandling, prompting compensation of Rs 33.75 lakh.
The Lehragaga case has stirred concern over private practice by government doctors, delays in treatment, and ineffective complaint redressal mechanisms. The medical board inquiry now awaited by the family will be crucial in determining accountability and justice.
