INDORE: Turned away twice by a govt-run community health centre, a woman gave birth on a pushcart in MP’s Ratlam district. The baby died. According to the family, hospital staff insisted it “wasn’t time yet” although the woman was clearly in labour.
The incident occurred in Sailana, 160km from Indore, in the wee hours of March 24, but came to the fore only on Friday when CCTV footage of the woman being transported on a handcart was shared on social media. The administration has showcaused Sailana block medical officer (BMO) Dr P C Koli and suspended nurses Chetna Charel and Gayatri Patidar.
According to sources, Sailana resident Krishna Gwala took his wife, Neetu, to the community health centre around 9am on March 23. Nurse Chetna, who was on duty, allegedly told them that delivery was still two to three days away and sent them home.
2 nurses suspended, block medical officer showcaused
Around 1am, Neetu experienced severe pain, and her husband took her back to the hospital. This time, nurse Gayatri was on duty. After examination, she allegedly said that delivery was “still 15 hours away” and refused to admit her. They returned home again.
About two hours later, Neetu went into labour. No vehicle was available at that hour. In desperation, her husband placed her on a handcart and rushed towards the hospital.
During the journey, the baby was delivered on the handcart. By the time they arrived at the hospital, the baby’s legs were out, and the head was still inside. The nurse on duty delivered the baby, but it was stillborn.
The victim filed a complaint with SDM Manish Jain on Thursday. The next morning, the CCTV video emerged. Collector Rajesh Batham ordered an investigation. Based on the investigation report, which pointed at negligence, the block medical officer was showcaused and nurses Chetna and Gayatri were suspended.
Also, a letter has been sent to the commissioner of health services for action against Dr Shailesh Dange, who was on duty in Sailana but allegedly did not attend to the patient.
