NHRC Demands Accountability For Jhansi NICU Fire That Claimed 10 Newborns

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken swift action following a devastating fire in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmibai Medical College, Jhansi, which tragically claimed the lives of 10 newborns. The commission has issued notices to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP), demanding a detailed report on the incident within a week.

NHRC Labels Incident a ‘Grave Violation’ of Human Rights

In a statement released on Saturday, the NHRC described the reports of the tragedy as “disturbing” and blamed negligence by hospital authorities. It highlighted that the infants were under the care of a government institution, which failed to ensure their safety.

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The commission has called the incident a “grave violation” of human rights and urged the state government to outline steps taken to ensure justice for the victims and measures to prevent such disasters in the future.

Preliminary Investigations Point to Electrical Short Circuit

Initial findings suggest that an electrical short circuit caused the fire late Friday night, engulfing the NICU where 54 infants were admitted. Hospital authorities reported that while 45 newborns were rescued, 16 remain in critical condition.

UP Government Responds to the Tragedy

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed senior officials, including the Divisional Commissioner and Deputy Inspector General of Police in Jhansi, to submit a preliminary report on the incident. The Chief Minister has also emphasized the need for thorough investigations and corrective measures to prevent similar occurrences.

Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, along with Principal Secretary (Health) Partha Sarthi Sen Sharma, visited the site on Saturday to oversee rescue operations and assess the damage.

Hospital Under Scrutiny

The NHRC has underscored the need for accountability and clarity on the circumstances that led to the tragedy. The commission has asked the state government to include specific details in its report, including actions taken against responsible authorities and plans to enhance safety protocols in healthcare facilities.

Ongoing Investigation and Public Outrage

The fire has sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning the safety measures in place at government hospitals. Families of the victims and local residents have demanded swift justice for the lives lost and better oversight of healthcare facilities.