Meerut Woman Dies After Bariatric Surgery; Family Alleges Medical Negligence

The Incident

Rajni Gupta, wife of local businessman Brajmohan Gupta, underwent bariatric surgery on July 11, 2023, to address her obesity. At the time of surgery, she reportedly weighed 123 kilograms. Her daughter, Shivani Gupta, who weighed around 120 kg, was also admitted for the same procedure at the same facility. While Shivani’s surgery went smoothly, Rajni began to show signs of severe discomfort soon after her operation.

Her family claimed that she experienced acute abdominal pain immediately after the surgery, but doctors allegedly dismissed it as gas-related discomfort.

On July 13, an abdominal X-ray reportedly revealed a leak near the surgical site. Despite this, her family alleged that timely corrective measures were not taken.

Rajni’s condition deteriorated over the next few days, and she eventually died on July 18.

Family Alleges Medical Negligence

The Gupta family has accused the hospital of negligence and has filed a written complaint at the Medical Police Station. Although an FIR has not yet been registered, the Meerut police have initiated an inquiry. “We admitted both my wife and daughter at the same time. My wife kept saying something is wrong with her stomach. We kept asking the doctor, but no one paid attention,” said Brajmohan Gupta.

The hospital staff allegedly gave painkillers and sedatives without addressing the root cause of the symptoms, according to the complaint.

The family protested outside the hospital, demanding action against the surgeon and medical team. The case has also been forwarded to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Meerut, who confirmed that a departmental investigation has been launched.

Surgeon Denies Allegations

Dr. Rishi Singhal, who performed the surgeries, has refuted the allegations. He stated that the patient had multiple co-morbidities including diabetes, high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, and sleep apnea, which increased the risk of complications.

He claimed both patients were stable on the morning of July 12, and that Rajni later developed uneasiness and was moved to the ICU. According to him, a team of doctors attended to her, and all efforts were made to manage her condition.

Dr. Singhal maintained that the surgical procedure was completed successfully and that the patient died of a heart attack, not a surgical error.

What Is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery, a treatment for morbid obesity, includes procedures like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. It aims to induce weight loss by altering the digestive system. While it can result in significant weight loss and improvements in conditions such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension, it carries potential risks like bleeding, infection, and leakage from the surgical site.

According to established medical guidelines, patients must meet eligibility criteria—typically a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or above, or 35+ with associated health issues—and must undergo rigorous preoperative evaluation.

Doctors usually inform patients of the potential complications, and post-operative care, including diet modification and regular follow-ups, is critical to recovery.

Investigation and Ethical Questions

This tragic case raises critical questions about informed consent, standard of care, and emergency preparedness in hospitals offering bariatric procedures. “It is crucial to ensure transparency about the risks involved and to take every patient complaint seriously,” said a senior doctor not associated with the case.

The Uttar Pradesh Medical Council and Indian Medical Association may become involved depending on the findings of the local probe.

As the investigation continues, the case underscores the urgent need for patient safety protocols and accountability within the healthcare system. For families seeking life-changing surgeries, trust in medical systems must be reinforced—not eroded.

(Rh/Dr. Divina Johncy Rosario/MSM/SE)