Following the circulation of videos on social media related to the death of a 60-year-old patient and the alleged denial of a bed to a head-injury patient at the Trauma Centre of King George's Medical University (KGMU), Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak has ordered an inquiry.
Inquiry ordered by health minister
Pathak, who also holds the health portfolio, has sought a detailed report within three days. He directed the KGMU vice-chancellor to take strict action if negligence is established. The move comes after two separate incidents raised serious concerns about patient care at the facility.
Details of the first incident
According to reports, the deceased, Rajkumar Gupta, 60, a resident of Sandila in Hardoi, was brought to the emergency ward in critical condition with breathing distress. Family members alleged that while doctors provided oxygen support, his condition worsened due to phlegm accumulation. They claimed repeated requests to use a suction machine went unaddressed because the equipment allegedly lacked a gas supply, leading to his death. The family later recorded and circulated a video online, which prompted official action.
Second incident and official response
In a separate incident, a head-injury patient was allegedly denied a bed at the Trauma Centre, leading to further outrage. Taking cognisance of both matters, Pathak wrote to KGMU Vice-Chancellor Prof Soniya Nityananda, ordering a time-bound probe. He stated that any lapse in patient care or hospital management would invite strict action. "Negligence in healthcare services is unacceptable. Those found guilty will face stringent consequences," Pathak said, directing authorities to fix accountability and prevent recurrence.
Probe underway
KGMU officials confirmed that the probe will examine the circumstances leading to the death as well as the allegations of denial of timely treatment in the second case. The university has been asked to submit its findings within three days. The incident has sparked a debate on healthcare infrastructure and accountability in Uttar Pradesh's premier medical institution.
