Sat Nov 16 14:43:11 UTC 2024: ## 10 Infants Dead in Jhansi Hospital Fire; Negligence Alleged
**Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh:** A devastating fire at the Maharanee Lakshmibai Medical College in Jhansi claimed the lives of 10 infants on Friday night. The blaze, which erupted in the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU), resulted in widespread panic and chaos. While 39 other infants were rescued after a young man broke a window, allegations of negligence and delayed response have emerged.
The fire, reportedly triggered by a spark in an oxygen concentrator, quickly engulfed the ward. A fire extinguisher proved ineffective, having expired four years prior. Eyewitnesses claim doctors fled the scene while the fire raged, leaving a young man to rescue several infants. He has since reported receiving threats from hospital administration for speaking to the media.
The fire, which broke out around 10:30 pm, took nearly two hours to bring under control despite the deployment of six fire engines and the army. Videos circulating on social media show scenes of pandemonium inside the hospital, alongside footage of the road being cleaned and limed before the arrival of Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak. This has sparked outrage, with the Deputy CM subsequently ordering an investigation into the cleanup efforts.
Seven of the deceased infants have been identified and released to their families, while the identities of the remaining three are yet to be confirmed.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a high-level inquiry and directed the Commissioner and DIG to submit a report within 12 hours. Deputy CM Pathak announced three separate investigations – one each by the health department, police, and a magistrate – vowing strict action against those found responsible for any negligence. The incident has prompted widespread condemnation and calls for improved safety standards in government hospitals.
First Piper 