Outrage at Keonjhar District Hospital After Maternal Death Sparks Allegations of Negligence
Keonjhar: Tension gripped the Keonjhar District Headquarters Hospital late Saturday night after a young mother, identified as Pinki Sahu from Turumunga, died under controversial circumstances following childbirth.
According to family members, Pinki was admitted to the maternity ward on Saturday morning with labour pains.
A caesarean section was performed in the evening, and she delivered a baby girl. However, by midnight, she began experiencing severe pain.
Relatives allege that despite repeated attempts by the attending nurse to contact the doctor on duty, no medical officer arrived. The nurse reportedly administered an injection without supervision. By 2 a.m., Pinki was declared dead.
Adding to the family’s suspicion, the death certificate handed over allegedly lacked a doctor’s signature.
Enraged relatives refused to accept the body until the responsible doctor arrived, staging a protest inside the hospital premises.
Police forces were deployed to control the situation and pacify the grieving family.
The incident has triggered widespread public anger, highlighting concerns over accountability and the absence of doctors during critical hours in district hospitals.
This case has reignited debate over Odisha’s healthcare infrastructure and the urgent need for stricter monitoring of medical staff in government hospitals.
