NEW DELHI: In a significant move, Uttar Pradesh Health Minister Brajesh Pathak announced the removal of the principal of Jhansi Medical College and the suspension of three other individuals following the tragic fire incident on November 15 that claimed the lives of 10 newborn babies. The decision was based on the investigation report by a four-member committee constituted on the instructions of the Deputy Chief Minister.
The devastating incident occurred at Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi, where 54 newborns were admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the time. The fire, suspected to have been caused by a short circuit in an oxygen concentrator, spread rapidly in the highly oxygenated environment of the NICU, resulting in the deaths of 10 newborns.
Brajesh Pathak stated, “Based on the investigation report, the principal of the college has been removed. The Chief Medical Superintendent has been charge-sheeted, and three others have been suspended.” This action underscores the government’s commitment to accountability and safety in healthcare facilities.
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In the aftermath of the tragedy, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava wrote to all Chief Secretaries of states and union territories, urging them to review and strengthen measures for fire prevention, preparedness, and mitigation in all health facilities. In a letter dated November 19, the Union Health Secretary emphasized the need for immediate updates to fire prevention plans and the training of healthcare staff in fire safety protocols, evacuation procedures, and the use of fire-fighting equipment.
The letter highlighted previous communications from the Ministry, including detailed checklists on the prevention and maintenance of fire safety, and called for enhanced capacities for fire accident prevention, preparedness, and mitigation in health facilities.
This incident has brought to light the critical importance of stringent fire safety measures in healthcare settings, particularly in sensitive areas like NICUs. The swift action taken by the Uttar Pradesh government and the Union Health Ministry’s directives aim to prevent such tragedies in the future and ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers alike.