A tragic incident in Tamil Nadu’s Cuddalore district has sparked outrage after a woman died following complications from a family planning surgery, with her relatives alleging medical negligence and demanding strict action against hospital staff.
Surgery Complications Lead to Death
The deceased, Vimala, a resident of Vellachiruppam village near Chidambaram, underwent a family planning procedure at Kamarajar Government Hospital on February 17. According to her family, she began experiencing severe complications after being discharged, including persistent pain at the surgical site and seizures.
Her condition worsened over time, leading to her readmission to the same hospital on March 15. As her health deteriorated further, she was referred to Government Medical College Hospital in Annamalai Nagar for advanced treatment.
Multiple Hospital Transfers Before Death
Despite receiving intensive care, Vimala’s condition did not improve. She was later shifted to Government Villupuram Medical College Hospital in Mundiyampakkam for better treatment. However, she succumbed to her condition on the morning of March 22.
She is survived by her three children — S. Prithika, S. Magizhini, and S. Magizhan — leaving the family devastated.
Protests Erupt Outside Hospital
Following her death, angry relatives and villagers staged a protest outside the Chidambaram Government Hospital on Sunday, demanding accountability and action against the medical staff involved in her treatment.
Revenue and police officials intervened and held discussions with the protesters to pacify the situation.
Police Case Registered, Probe Underway
The Chidambaram Town Police have registered a case under Section 194(1) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. Authorities stated that further action will be taken based on the findings of the post-mortem report.
However, the family initially refused to accept the body, insisting on discussions with senior officials, including the District Collector, Superintendent of Police, and the Joint Director of Health Services.
Family Demands Compensation and Support
On Monday, the protests continued as Vimala’s relatives gathered outside the Sub-Collector’s office. The family has demanded compensation of ₹50 lakh, government support for the education of her children, and a job for her husband, Selladurai.
The incident has once again raised serious concerns over patient safety and accountability in government healthcare facilities, with calls for a thorough investigation into the alleged negligence.
