Tamil Nadu: Relatives Stage Protest After Pregnant Woman's Death at Government Hospital
In a tragic incident that has sparked outrage, relatives of a pregnant woman who died at Thiruthuraipoondi government hospital in Tamil Nadu protested on Thursday, alleging severe medical negligence. The protest occurred in front of the Tiruvarur district collectorate, with family members demanding justice and compensation.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The deceased, identified as Abina, was a 27-year-old resident of Edaiyur and married to Velumurugan, a construction labourer. She was two months pregnant at the time of her untimely death on Wednesday. According to her relatives, Abina complained of severe pain on Wednesday evening, prompting her husband and family members to rush her to the Thiruthuraipoondi Government Hospital for urgent medical attention.
Allegations of Medical Negligence
Upon arrival at the hospital, the relatives claimed that no doctor was available on duty. They alleged that only nurses attended to Abina initially, and it was only after some time that a doctor arrived. Shockingly, the doctor soon informed the family that Abina had passed away, leaving them devastated and accusing the hospital of gross negligence due to the absence of timely medical care.
Immediate Aftermath and Protests
In response to the tragedy, shocked relatives immediately staged a sit-in protest inside the hospital premises. Police intervened to manage the situation, assuring the family that appropriate action would be taken. Following this, Abina's body was sent to Tiruvarur Medical College Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.
Escalation of Protests
The protests escalated on Thursday when Abina's relatives gathered in front of the Tiruvarur district collectorate. They demanded suitable compensation for the bereaved family and a government job for a family member as part of the redressal. A formal petition was submitted at the collectorate outlining their grievances and calls for accountability.
Official Response and Ongoing Issues
When contacted by media outlets, officials were unavailable for comments, leaving the allegations unaddressed publicly. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about healthcare infrastructure and staffing in government hospitals, particularly in rural areas of Tamil Nadu.
Key Demands from the Protesters
- Immediate compensation for the family of the deceased.
- Provision of a government job to a family member.
- Thorough investigation into the alleged medical negligence.
- Ensuring better doctor availability and healthcare services in government hospitals.
The case has drawn attention to the critical need for improved medical facilities and prompt emergency responses to prevent such tragedies in the future.
