Jhansi Hospital Fire: 10 Newborns Dead, 16 Injured; State Orders High-Level Investigation

In a tragic fire at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmibai Medical College in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, ten newborns lost their lives, 16 others sustained injuries, and 37 infants were rescued late Friday night. Initial reports indicate the fire was likely caused by a short circuit around 10:30 p.m.

Government Launches Multi-Tier Probe

The Uttar Pradesh Government ordered a comprehensive three-tier investigation into the incident. The Divisional Commissioner of Jhansi and Deputy Inspector General (DIG) have been instructed to submit a detailed report within 24 hours. A magisterial inquiry has also been initiated. In addition, a six-member panel of doctors will examine the circumstances leading to the fatalities.

Evacuation Amid Chaos

As smoke filled the NICU, hospital staff and caregivers scrambled to save the babies, breaking windows to evacuate them before fire services arrived. District Magistrate Avinash Kumar confirmed the deaths and the successful rescue of several infants, calling the incident a significant tragedy.

Condolences from Leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu expressed profound grief. PM Modi termed the accident “heart-wrenching” and announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh to the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. President Murmu described the event as “extremely heartbreaking” and extended her condolences to the grieving families.

State Administration’s Swift Action

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed deep sorrow and directed the district administration to ensure immediate relief and top-notch treatment for the injured. The CM announced ₹5 lakh compensation for each deceased’s family and called for a detailed report within 12 hours. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, accompanied by senior health officials, rushed to Jhansi to monitor relief measures.

Scene at the Hospital

Senior officers, including the Divisional Commissioner and SSP Sudha Singh, confirmed that 50 to 54 babies were in the NICU during the incident. Rescue operations concluded around 1 a.m., with injured children receiving medical care. The police are verifying reports that some parents left the hospital with their children after the fire erupted.

Concerns Over Safety and Infrastructure

The fire raises questions about safety measures in government-run hospitals. Maharani Laxmibai Medical College, a central healthcare facility in Bundelkhand since 1968, now faces scrutiny over the adequacy of its infrastructure and emergency preparedness.

Commitment to Justice

Officials ensure a thorough investigation to identify any lapses or negligence. The tragic event has drawn attention to the need for improved safety standards, particularly in critical care units.