BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 10th April 2025: The tragic death of a 14-month-old baby in Khowai District Hospital has sparked controversy, with the bereaved family alleging medical negligence and delay in referral. The hospital authorities, however, have denied the charges, asserting that all necessary medical steps were taken.
The incident dates back to April 6, Sunday, when Sukanta Das of Paharmura brought his 14-month-old son to Khowai District Hospital with mild fever. Pediatrician Dr. Rajesh Debbarma examined the child and prescribed medication. However, later in the evening, the child’s condition reportedly worsened, prompting the parents to return to the hospital.
According to the family, the baby was admitted that evening, but his condition continued to deteriorate. Devastated and angry, the parents blamed the doctor on duty for not referring the child earlier or recognizing the seriousness of the illness.
In response to the allegations, Dr. Rajesh Debbarma maintained that the child was suffering from seizures, which were managed with medication. “The seizure subsided after treatment. I monitored the child’s condition step by step. In some cases, children between zero and six years develop complications during fever, or due to infections like meningitis or encephalitis,” Dr. Debbarma said, adding that the situation escalated rapidly and was beyond his control.
He further clarified that the child was referred for higher medical care and passed away during treatment at his private hospital, denying any lapse in his medical duty.
Khowai District Hospital’s Medical Superintendent, Dr. Sardindu Reang, backed the pediatrician’s claims. “After looking into the matter, I can confirm that Dr. Rajesh Debbarma provided all possible care. As doctors, we are always committed to giving the best treatment,” he said.
Despite the clarification from the hospital, the child’s family remains inconsolable, seeking answers for the sudden and heartbreaking loss.
