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Ballari, December 1 – Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has taken swift action following the tragic maternal deaths reported at the Ballari District Hospital. Chairing a high-level meeting on Saturday, the CM announced the suspension of State Drug Controller Umesh for alleged negligence.
The deaths, linked to complications arising from the administration of Ringer’s Lactate solution, have prompted the government to blacklist the West Bengal-based supplier. Criminal proceedings have also been initiated against the company.
“We have decided to provide a compensation of ₹2 lakh to the families of the deceased and will recover additional compensation from the company to support the victims’ families,” Siddaramaiah told reporters.
Investigations and Immediate Measures
Since November 11, four maternal deaths have been reported at the Ballari hospital, out of seven cases involving severe complications such as multiple organ failure and acute kidney injury. While four women succumbed, two patients have been discharged after recovery, and one remains under treatment.
The government has withdrawn all batches of the implicated Ringer’s Lactate solution and sent samples for laboratory testing. A preliminary investigation report has been submitted by an expert committee formed to probe the deaths.
To prevent similar tragedies, Siddaramaiah announced the establishment of a state-level expert committee, chaired by the Development Secretary, to investigate maternal deaths across Karnataka.
Reforms and Future Action
The Chief Minister has directed officials to prepare a proposal for reforms in the drug procurement process and the Drug Control Department, inspired by Tamil Nadu’s model. The proposal will be tabled at the next Cabinet meeting.
Discussions are also underway to recommend tighter drug control laws to the Central government. Officials were instructed to monitor for similar issues elsewhere in the state and submit a detailed report within a week.
“Those responsible for these incidents will face stringent action once the laboratory results are available,” Siddaramaiah emphasized.
Curbing the “Medicine Mafia”
During the meeting, officials raised concerns over the alleged influence of the “medicine mafia.” The Chief Minister highlighted the need for strict measures to combat malpractices in the pharmaceutical supply chain and ensure the safety of patients.
With these steps, the Karnataka government aims to address the systemic issues in drug control and safeguard public health.
