Tragedy Strikes Bageshwar District Hospital
A devastating incident unfolded at Bageshwar district hospital in the early hours of Sunday when a 35-year-old pregnant woman lost her life during treatment, triggering widespread outrage and allegations of medical negligence from her grieving family.
Kavita Pathak, who resided in Sangoḍ Kotmanya within Pithoragarh district, developed serious health complications late on Saturday evening. The situation prompted her initial admission to Berinag hospital, but medical professionals there quickly referred her to the better-equipped Bageshwar district hospital for advanced care.
Family's Heartbreaking Account
According to distraught family members, the hospital staff demanded Rs 4,000 for medical procedures before providing adequate treatment. They also claimed there were significant delays in administering critical care that might have saved Kavita's life.
Draupadi Devi, Kavita's mother, expressed her profound grief and confusion about the circumstances surrounding her daughter's death. "They told us everything was fine. We don't know what happened that my daughter died. She has two small children. We are devastated," the heartbroken mother stated.
Shiv Datt Pathak, Kavita's father-in-law, provided additional disturbing details. He revealed that despite Kavita having low haemoglobin levels, hospital staff initially refused to use the blood the family had arranged. "They gave her other medicines that worsened her condition, then later transfused blood without informing us and demanded Rs 4,000," he alleged.
Hospital's Response and Investigation
Hospital authorities presented a different perspective on the tragic event. Official sources indicated that Kavita had allegedly consumed abortion pills several days after conception, which resulted in severe internal bleeding that proved difficult to control.
Dr. Tapan Sharma, the Chief Medical Superintendent of the hospital, defended the medical team's efforts. "Our team tried its best to save her, but the bleeding was too severe," he explained. The doctor assured that a thorough inquiry would be conducted into the matter and promised strict action against any staff member found guilty of negligence.
This tragic incident has reignited concerns about the inadequate healthcare facilities and gaps in maternal care services across the region. It comes amid ongoing protests from local communities demanding better medical infrastructure and more reliable emergency services, particularly for pregnant women in rural areas.
The death has spotlighted the urgent need for improved medical supervision and more transparent healthcare practices in government hospitals serving remote communities.
