A major controversy has erupted at the Wayanad Medical College in Mananthavady following shocking allegations of medical negligence involving a young mother. The incident, which has triggered public outrage and political protests, centers on a 21-year-old woman who suffered for over two months after a piece of cotton gauze was reportedly left inside her body following a normal delivery.
The Painful 75-Day Ordeal
The woman gave birth to her child at the hospital on October 20, with the delivery concluding around 10 pm. She was discharged three days later, on October 23. However, her relief soon turned into agony as she began experiencing severe pain and discomfort in the subsequent days. Concerned, she returned to the medical college after 20 days, seeking help for her debilitating condition.
Despite her complaints, she alleges that the medical staff failed to identify the root cause of her suffering. Nurses reportedly told her nothing was wrong after an examination, and doctors simply advised her to drink more water before sending her home. Even on a subsequent visit, the problem remained undiagnosed. The woman's nightmare only ended after 75 days, when the retained gauze—originally used to manage postpartum bleeding—came out on its own.
Formal Inquiry and Mounting Public Anger
The patient detailed her harrowing experience to reporters, stating she endured unbearable pain, was unable to eat for several days, and continues to struggle with persistent back pain. After she lodged a formal complaint with Minister O R Kelu, the district medical officer, Dr. Ansi Mary Jacob, ordered an official enquiry. The investigation team recorded statements from the woman and the DMO, submitting its report to the director of medical education.
The case has become a flashpoint for broader grievances against the hospital. Protesters from the Congress, Youth Congress, and BJP blocked the medical college superintendent, demanding stringent action against those responsible for the lapse. They accused the institution of making medical negligence a routine affair, alleging that the hospital frequently refers patients to Kozhikode Medical College and other facilities instead of providing adequate care locally.
Protests Turn Tense, Police Intervene
The demonstrations intensified, leading to a scuffle when police attempted to disperse the crowd. Subsequently, police arrested several protesters and took them to the police station. Undeterred, BJP activists staged another protest at the medical college in the afternoon, keeping the pressure on the authorities.
This incident has cast a harsh spotlight on patient safety protocols at the medical college and has ignited a fierce debate on accountability within the public healthcare system in the region.
