Dijiworld Media Network – Midnapore
Midnapore, Jan 11: Tensions flared outside the Midnapore Medical College and Hospital after the tragic death of a pregnant woman, allegedly due to the administration of expired Ringer's Lactate IV fluid. The incident has left four other patients critically ill, sparking protests by the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), Congress, and other left parties.
The grieving family alleged gross negligence by hospital authorities, claiming that the woman’s death was caused by expired saline. Following her delivery on Wednesday, her condition deteriorated, and she passed away on Friday, January 10, at the government-run facility in West Bengal's Paschim Medinipur district. Her newborn remains under medical care at the same hospital.
The woman’s death has ignited outrage, with protesters gathering outside the hospital, raising slogans, and holding posters accusing the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government of negligence. The protesters attempted to meet the 13-member probe team formed by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to investigate the incident. However, they were stopped by police, leading to a scuffle outside the hospital premises.
Govt forms probe panel
The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has constituted a 13-member panel to investigate the matter. A senior official stated that health department representatives visited the hospital on Saturday morning to gather details and meet concerned authorities.
In addition, samples of Ringer's Lactate administered to the patients have been collected, and drug control officials are awaiting test reports.
What is ringer’s lactate?
Ringer’s Lactate is an intravenous fluid commonly used to replenish electrolytes and fluids in patients experiencing low blood volume or pressure. Allegations regarding the use of expired saline have raised concerns over safety protocols in government-run medical facilities.
Protest intensifies
The protestors, primarily from the SFI and Congress, accused the hospital authorities of negligence and held Mamata Banerjee, who also heads the health portfolio, responsible for the incident. The scuffle with police occurred when protestors tried to enter the hospital premises to confront the probe panel.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted concerns over healthcare standards in the state. The investigation report is awaited, even as demands for justice and accountability grow louder.