Naxalbari, West Bengal: Tensions flared at Naxalbari Rural Hospital on Thursday after the death of a patient allegedly due to medical negligence, triggering protests by the victim’s family and local residents.
The deceased, a tea garden worker, was admitted early Thursday morning with complaints of dysentery and fever. According to family members, the patient did not receive adequate medical care and died shortly after admission.
The victim’s brother alleged that hospital staff delayed treatment and harassed the family. Enraged by the perceived negligence, relatives and locals gathered outside the hospital, staging a protest and demanding strict action against the responsible medical personnel.
The situation escalated until officials from the Naxalbari police and the block health department arrived at the scene. Their intervention, along with assurances of a proper investigation, led to the dispersal of the crowd.
The deceased’s mother has filed a formal complaint against the on-duty doctor, accusing the hospital of negligence that resulted in her son’s death.
Block Medical Officer of Health (BMOH), Dr. Kuntal Ghosh, confirmed that a formal inquiry has been initiated into the matter. “The exact cause of death will be determined following the autopsy,” he said.
The body has been sent to North Bengal Medical College and Hospital (NBMCH) for post-mortem examination. Meanwhile, police have launched an investigation based on the family’s complaint.
The incident has reignited concerns about the quality of healthcare in rural areas, where systemic staff shortages and lack of resources continue to impact timely medical care.
