Rajasthan Health Minister Orders Probe into Kota Childbirth Deaths

The minister directed that a comprehensive and thorough investigation be conducted into every aspect of the incident to determine its root causes.

Describing the incident as deeply tragic and unfortunate, Khimsar said it was essential to conduct a high-level inquiry covering all possible angles, including the quality of medicines, possible infection from operation theatres or medical equipment, and any lapses in treatment or supervision.

He said the investigation must lead to clear findings so that corrective and punitive action could be taken wherever necessary.

The minister also instructed officials to expedite laboratory reports of samples related to medicines and medical equipment. He emphasised strict adherence to treatment protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in all hospitals, particularly high-load facilities handling a large number of deliveries, to prevent such incidents in future.

Khimsar said the state government was treating the matter with utmost seriousness and had already taken immediate action, including sending expert medical teams to Kota to assist in treatment and assess the situation.

He added that prima facie findings had indicated lapses in treatment and supervision, following which three doctors and four nursing staff members had been suspended, while one UTB doctor had been dismissed.

Show-cause notices have also been issued to the superintendents of New Medical College Hospital and J.K. Lon Hospital.

Further action, he said, would be taken based on the findings of the final investigation report.

Meanwhile, the Health Minister will visit Kota on Thursday to conduct an on-the-spot review. He will inspect New Medical College Hospital and J.K. Lon Hospital and interact with admitted patients and their families before holding a detailed review meeting with senior officials.

During the meeting, the Health Minister held detailed discussions with senior officials, including Principal Secretary Gayatri Rathore, Commissioner of Medical Education Babulal Goyal, RMSCL Managing Director Pukhraj Sen, Drug Control Commissioner Dr T. Shubhamangala, Principal of SMS Medical College Dr Deepak Maheshwari, nephrology specialist Dr Dhananjay Agarwal, Principal of Kota Medical College Dr Nilesh Jain, and Additional Principal Dr Deepika Mittal.

- IANS