Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh – A devastating fire broke out late Friday night in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College, claiming the lives of at least 10 newborns and leaving 16 others critically injured. The tragedy has triggered widespread grief and sharp criticism of hospital safety protocols.
Details of the Incident
- Time and Location: The fire reportedly began around 10:45 PM in the NICU, which housed 54 infants at the time.
- Casualties and Rescues: While 10 infants succumbed to the fire, around 35 were successfully rescued. Medical teams are working tirelessly to treat the injured.
- Preliminary Cause: Authorities suspect a short circuit as the likely cause, although investigations are ongoing.
“This is a deeply unfortunate incident. Doctors are doing everything possible to treat the injured newborns,” said BJP MLA Rajeev Singh Parichha.
Government Response
The Uttar Pradesh government has announced a multi-level probe into the incident, encompassing administrative, police, fire department, and magisterial investigations.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak assured strict action against those found responsible, stating, “If lapses are identified, the guilty will face the consequences. The government stands with the grieving families.”
Financial Assistance
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced compensation of:
- ₹5 lakh for the families of deceased infants.
- ₹50,000 for families of the injured.
The CM has also instructed divisional commissioners and the DIG of Jhansi to submit a detailed report within 12 hours.
National Reactions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as “heart-wrenching” and expressed his condolences:
“The fire at Jhansi Medical College is heartbreaking. My prayers are with the families enduring this unimaginable loss.”
CM Yogi Adityanath also emphasized the need for swift relief and rescue operations.
Opposition Criticism
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav labeled the incident a “direct case of negligence.” He criticized the administration for potentially using substandard equipment, stating, “The fire is reported to have been caused by an oxygen concentrator, highlighting management failures.”
Yadav called for punitive measures against those responsible and urged the CM to focus on improving the state’s deteriorating healthcare system.
Public Outcry
The incident has reignited concerns about fire safety in healthcare facilities, particularly in critical care units. Activists and citizens are demanding stricter enforcement of safety protocols to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As investigations proceed, the focus remains on accountability, justice for the victims, and systemic reforms to avert similar incidents.
