Sat Nov 16 16:38:36 IST 2024: **Outrage Erupts After Video Shows Lime-Sprinkling at Jhansi Hospital Following Deadly Fire**
JHANSI, UTTAR PRADESH – November 16, 2024 – A video showing the grounds of the Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi being cleaned and sprayed with lime ahead of a visit by Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak has sparked widespread outrage. The incident follows a devastating fire at the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) that claimed the lives of ten newborns.
The video, which went viral on social media, depicts workers meticulously cleaning the hospital grounds, including the application of lime, apparently in preparation for Mr. Pathak’s arrival. This sparked accusations of insensitivity from political parties and the public, who criticized the local administration and the Uttar Pradesh government for prioritizing appearances over addressing the tragedy.
The Congress party issued a strong condemnation, calling the lime-sprinkling act “shameless” in the face of the deaths and the grief of the families. Shahnawaz Alam, the party’s national secretary, stated that the government’s focus on superficial improvements while ten infants perished is a testament to its lack of concern for public welfare. Similar sentiments were echoed across social media.
Following the public outcry, Deputy Chief Minister Pathak responded with a video message, expressing his condemnation of the actions and ordering the Jhansi District Magistrate to take immediate action against those responsible for directing the lime-spraying. He stated the activity was “condemnable and shocking.”
The incident has intensified criticism of the Uttar Pradesh government’s handling of the tragedy, with opposition parties highlighting the perceived lack of accountability and sensitivity. The investigation into the fire itself is ongoing.
First Piper 