Woman Delivers Baby Outside UP Hospital, No Staff in Sight

In a heartbreaking incident that has sparked outrage across Uttar Pradesh, a woman was forced to give birth outside a closed government health centre in Ballia district when no doctor or staff were on duty. The shocking scene, captured on video, has gone viral, raising serious concerns about rural healthcare in India.

The incident took place at Sonbarsa Community Health Centre at around 2:30 am on Friday. The woman, in active labour, was brought by ambulance but found the hospital closed and deserted. With no medical help available, she delivered her baby under the open sky on the verandah floor near the hospital gate.

The CMO confirmed the negligence and inaction.

Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Sanjeev Varman inspected the premises the same day. His findings were appalling:

“This is a clear case of gross negligence and incompetence,” he said.

Dr. Varman confirmed that the Medical Superintendent, Dr. Rajesh Kumar, along with other staff members, were absent during the incident. In fact, most of the medical staff were reportedly sleeping at home instead of being present for their night shift.

Immediate transfers and disciplinary action

After the investigation, immediate administrative action has been taken:

• Dr. Rajesh Kumar, Medical Superintendent, Transferred to Rigwan

• Dr. Vyas Kumar, Medical Officer,  Transferred to Garhwar

• Priyanka Singh, Staff Nurse, Transferred to Narhi

• Kanchan, Staff Nurse, Transferred to Jaiprakash Nagar

In addition, CMO Varman has recommended further action against Dr. Rajesh Kumar to the Director General of Health Services.

Public Outcry and Political Backlash 

The video that's been going around has sparked a big reaction on social media. People, including public figures, are calling for accountability. Samajwadi Party MLA Jai Prakash Anchal is pushing for tough consequences for those involved. At the same time, Vijayalakshmi, the daughter of former BJP MP Bharat Singh, held a protest at the hospital, demanding justice and a public apology from the health department.

Rural Healthcare Under Scrutiny 

This troubling incident has reignited concerns about rural healthcare in India. Many online and health advocates are asking how something like this could happen in a government facility that's supposed to help those in need.

While officials are taking quick steps in response, this situation clearly shows how crucial it is to have accountability, better staffing, and around-the-clock medical services.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Muhammad Faisal Arshad/MSM)