Tragedy in Jhansi: Fire at Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College Claims 10 Newborn Lives
In a heart-breaking incident, a fire broke out at the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, claiming the lives of 10 newborns. The fire is believed to have started when a nurse lit a matchstick to fix an oxygen cylinder pipe, igniting a highly oxygenated environment. To make matters worse, expired fire extinguishers were found at the scene, and the safety alarms failed to activate, delaying rescue efforts.
Investigation and Government Response
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a high-level probe into the incident, with a detailed report expected by Saturday evening. The Chief Minister has also announced financial assistance of ₹5 lakh for the families of each deceased child and ₹50,000 for those injured. DNA testing will be conducted to identify three of the deceased newborns.
Condolences and Outrage
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge have expressed their heartfelt condolences to the grieving families. The tragedy has sparked nationwide outrage, with citizens and leaders alike demanding stricter safety measures in healthcare facilities.
Call for Accountability
This devastating loss of innocent lives underscores the urgent need to prioritize hospital safety in India. The ongoing investigation aims to determine the exact cause of the fire and assess whether proper safety protocols were in place.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the affected families in this time of unimaginable grief.