The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has called for a comprehensive inquiry report from the Rohtak deputy commissioner regarding allegations that a minor child was denied timely administration of an anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (PGIMS) in Rohtak. PGIMS is a constituent institute of the Pandit Bhagwat Dayal University of Health Sciences (PBDUHS).
Commission Takes Cognizance of Complaint
Taking cognizance of the complaint, the NCPCR directed the district administration to thoroughly examine the circumstances under which the child allegedly failed to receive immediate medical attention, despite the urgency of the case. The commission emphasized that rabies is a nearly 100% fatal disease if preventive treatment is delayed, making timely vaccination critical.
Details of the Alleged Incident
According to the complaint filed by Renu Phaugat, the child required an urgent anti-rabies dose due to the high risk of rabies infection. However, the vaccine was reportedly not administered at the government hospital. The complainant alleged that the family was later advised to visit the civil hospital for vaccination, leading to further delay and distress.
Phaugat claimed that despite waiting for several hours, the child did not receive the required ARV dose. She highlighted that rabies, if left untreated, is almost always fatal, underscoring the need for immediate preventive measures.
Concerns Over Medical Negligence
The commission observed that the alleged lack of coordination among hospital staff and administrative authorities caused significant distress to both the child and family members. It further noted that the matter reflected serious concerns regarding possible medical negligence and delay in emergency healthcare response.
Responses Sought from Authorities
The NCPCR has sought detailed responses from PGIMS authorities, the health department, and the district administration regarding the incident. The commission has also asked officials to explain why immediate treatment could not be ensured and what corrective measures would be taken to prevent recurrence of such cases in the future.
Hospital Administration Responds
PBDUHS vice-chancellor Dr. H. K. Aggarwal could not be reached for a comment. However, PGIMS medical superintendent Dr. Kundan Mittal provided a response, stating that the complainant made some unreasonable demands. "They were given time for the anti-rabies vaccine in the OPD, but they insisted on getting it in the emergency services, which could have inconvenienced emergency patients," said Dr. Mittal.
The commission is expected to review the responses and take appropriate action to ensure accountability and improve emergency healthcare services.
