Two pregnant women have died recently at a Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) hospital, leading to accusations of medical negligence. A third woman remains in critical condition after allegedly receiving incorrect injections over the past three months. The most recent incident involves Sonam Dongre, who was eight months pregnant and admitted to the Rajmata Jijau Municipal Hospital in Airoli. She passed away during her treatment on Wednesday.

The deaths have sparked widespread concern regarding patient safety and treatment standards at this municipal healthcare facility. Reports suggest that these incidents could indicate systemic issues within the hospital, prompting public outcry and calls for accountability from various stakeholders.

Protests Erupt Demanding Accountability

Following these recent fatalities, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) organised a protest to demand a thorough investigation into the events surrounding the deaths. MNS city president Gajanan Kale, accompanied by party members, met with Navi Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Kailas Shinde to request stringent action against any individuals found culpable in this situation. This demonstration was marked by MNS workers performing a “Kapde Utaro Andolan” (Strip Protest), symbolising their anger over alleged deficiencies in the municipal healthcare system.

During the protest, activists called for accountability and expressed their dissatisfaction with the current healthcare provisions. They alleged that the incidents are symptomatic of a larger failure within the system and are demanding comprehensive reforms to ensure patient safety in the future.

In response to the outcry, the civic administration took immediate action by suspending a senior gynaecologist linked to Dongre’s case. Officials stated that there was prima facie evidence indicating negligence in the handling of her treatment. The suspension was enacted under the provisions of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act and Maharashtra Civil Services Rules.

Continued Demand for Thorough Investigation

Despite the suspension of one official, MNS leaders have voiced their concerns that this action is insufficient. They argue that more extensive accountability is necessary, urging that all healthcare personnel who may be guilty of negligence should also face consequences. The party has warned of escalating their protests if more substantial action is not taken.

The dismantling of the protest coincided with the issuance of the suspension order, but the issues surrounding the deaths remain unresolved. There is mounting pressure for a detailed inquiry into the alleged mishaps at the hospital. Activists and concerned citizens are advocating for systemic reforms within the healthcare sector to prevent future occurrences of similar tragedies.

As investigations into these incidents continue, both local authorities and the public are keenly aware of the broader implications for the municipal healthcare system in Navi Mumbai, with hopes for improvements to avoid further loss of life due to negligence.

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