THRC flags possible negligence; Orders Independent inquiry into pregnant woman's death at IGM Hospital

The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has stepped in following the tragic death of a pregnant woman at Indira Gandhi Memorial (IGM) Hospital, directing its Investigation Wing to conduct an independent inquiry. The Commission expressed grave concern over possible human rights violations and raised sharp questions about the handling of the case by health authorities.

The intervention came after reports in local newspapers on May 30 alleged that the woman died due to the absence of a Medical Officer at the hospital, sparking outrage over the state of emergency healthcare services. 

Acting on these reports, the Commission sought clarification from the Director of Health Services. However, instead of forming an independent inquiry committee, the Director forwarded reports prepared by doctors from the same Obstetrics and Gynaecology unit where the incident occurred — a move the Commission found inadequate.

The deceased, Bibha Debnath (33) of Amtali, was admitted on May 28 with abdominal pain and urinary retention. Doctors recommended an emergency caesarean section, warning of risks including uterine rupture and stillbirth. 

The hospital claimed that Bibha and her husband refused consent for surgery, opting for a “wait and watch” approach. She was reportedly monitored through the night, but was found unconscious in the early hours of May 29. Despite resuscitation efforts, she was declared dead around 6 a.m.

Hospital authorities further alleged that after her death, nearly 100 people gathered outside the labour room, creating a disturbance, threatening staff and forcibly snatching medical documents. Police later recovered some of the papers, though they were reportedly taken again from nursing staff.

Despite these explanations, the THRC noted glaring omissions: why the patient was not referred to a higher medical centre, or why no alternative treatment was offered if surgery could not proceed. The Commission observed that such lapses cast serious doubt on the conduct of the treating medical officers.

Finding the hospital’s account unsatisfactory, the THRC has formally directed its Investigation Wing to carry out an independent probe and submit its findings within one month. 

The Commission will then hear the matter further to determine whether negligence or violation of the patient’s human rights occurred in the treatment provided at IGM Hospital.