Jamshedpur, Jharkhand | September 10, 2024
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India has taken suo motu cognizance of a distressing case at Jamshedpur’s Mahatma Gandhi Memorial (MGM) Hospital, where a pregnant woman was reportedly left without medical attention for 27 hours, resulting in the death of her unborn child. The Commission, citing media reports, has raised concerns over potential human rights violations and has issued a notice to the Jharkhand government, demanding a detailed report within two weeks.
According to the reports, the woman was referred to MGM Hospital by a Community Health Centre for specialized care during labor. However, upon reaching the hospital, no bed was available, forcing her to lie on the floor for an extended period without receiving necessary medical assistance. Tragically, the next day, her baby died in the womb due to the lack of timely care. Another woman at the hospital, who had just given birth, was also reportedly being treated on the floor due to the lack of beds.
The NHRC, in its notice to the Chief Secretary of Jharkhand, has sought a comprehensive report that addresses the availability of beds and medical facilities at MGM Hospital and other government hospitals in the state. Additionally, the commission has asked for the current health status of the woman, the steps taken to ensure adequate care for her, and any compensation provided to the affected family.
The Commission’s prompt action reflects the gravity of the situation, as it underlines the importance of ensuring access to timely and adequate healthcare, particularly in critical cases such as childbirth. It is also a reminder of the systemic issues plaguing public healthcare facilities, including overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure, which continue to affect patients’ well-being.
The government of Jharkhand has been given two weeks to submit the report, after which further action may be taken based on the findings. The case has sparked widespread concern, calling for urgent reforms in the state’s healthcare system to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.
For more updates, stay tuned as the situation unfolds.