Newborn Dies in Fall at Assam Hospital, Authorities Order Probe

Quick Summary:

• A newborn died after falling from a phototherapy bed at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
• The infant, born via C-section to Smita Deka on August 15, was being treated for jaundice. The incident occurred at around 5:30 p.m. on Monday, August 18, 2025.
• Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma called the incident “unfortunate and painful” and warned of strong action if negligence is found. He has directed the Commissioner of Police to examine CCTV footage as part of the inquiry.
• GMCH principal Achyut Chandra Baishya announced two investigations into the incident by the Health Department and GMCH itself, with reports expected within 48 hours.
• Utpal Bordoloi, father of the deceased infant, demanded accountability by temporarily relieving those on duty during the event and plans to file a police complaint and pursue legal action if negligence is confirmed.
• Hospital authorities stated this is the first such incident sence GMCH’s establishment in 1960.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
This tragic accident highlights critical concerns surrounding operations at neonatal facilities in India’s healthcare system, especially public hospitals like GMCH-a trusted institution since its inception in 1960. While multiple investigations have been instituted promptly following Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s firm response, determining systemic or individual lapses will be vital not only for assigning accountability but also for instituting preventive measures across similar health institutions.

The father’s call for interim removal of staff on duty reflects broader public frustration with perceived oversight gaps in medical care environments that deal with fragile patients like newborns requiring intensive monitoring. One notable assurance lies in CM Sarma’s demand for scrutiny using CCTV footage; objective evidence may help clarify ambiguities regarding whether equipment failure or human error caused this rare tragedy.

Ultimately, India must address core infrastructural challenges at overcrowded healthcare facilities where incidents involving underreported hazards occur despite technical protocols aimed at safety-a difficult but necessary path toward improved patient safeguards within NICUs nationwide.

Read more: Indian Express