BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 28th May 2025: The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has directed the Health Director to submit an inquiry report within 15 days into the alleged medical negligence that reportedly led to the death of a patient at GB Pant Hospital in Agartala.
In a suo motu order dated May 23, the Commission cited media reports which alleged that Prasenjit Debnath, a resident of Julai Bari in South Tripura, died after a delayed surgery despite repeated assurances from hospital authorities.According to the report, Debnath sustained serious injuries in a motor accident and was first taken to Julai Bari Primary Health Centre, then referred to Santirbazar District Hospital. As his condition deteriorated, he was shifted to GB Pant Hospital in Agartala, where Medical Officer Dr. Dhruba Das admitted him.
The report noted that Dr. Das recommended immediate surgery and the patient’s family arranged for blood accordingly. The surgery was initially scheduled for 9:00 AM on Monday. However, it was repeatedly delayed, and no operation was performed by Wednesday. Debnath ultimately succumbed to his injuries that night. The deceased’s daughter alleged that the attending doctor cited unavailability of ICU beds as the reason for the delay, suggesting the operation could not be conducted without ICU support.
The Commission observed that denial of timely medical attention constitutes a violation of the fundamental right to life. “It is the right of every citizen to receive proper medical care in a hospital. The death of an individual due to alleged negligence raises serious concerns,” the order stated.
The THRC has issued a notice to the Director of Health Services, Government of Tripura, to conduct an inquiry and submit a detailed report within 15 days. A copy of the order has also been forwarded to the Secretary of the Health & Family Welfare Department for necessary action.
