Sat Nov 16 17:37:56 UTC 2024: ## Outrage Erupts in Uttar Pradesh After Lime-Sprinkling at Hospital Following Deadly Fire

**Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, November 16, 2024** – A viral video showing the grounds of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi being cleaned and sprinkled with lime ahead of a visit by Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak has ignited widespread outrage. The incident follows a devastating fire at the hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) which claimed the lives of ten newborns.

The video, widely shared on social media, depicts workers preparing the hospital grounds just hours after the tragic fire. This sparked accusations of insensitivity from the public and opposition parties alike. The Congress party, for example, termed the act “shameless,” highlighting the stark contrast between the cleanup efforts and the grieving families of the victims.

Critics condemned the Uttar Pradesh government’s response, alleging a systemic failure of governance. Online commentators and political figures alike questioned the prioritization of the Deputy Chief Minister’s visit over addressing the aftermath of the fire and supporting the affected families.

Following the public outcry, Deputy Chief Minister Pathak issued a video statement condemning the lime-sprinkling incident. He ordered an investigation into the matter and directed the Jhansi District Magistrate to take action against those responsible. He also refuted media reports alleging that the hospital’s fire extinguishers were expired and faulty, stating that a fire safety audit had been conducted in February and a mock drill in June. The principal of the medical college echoed this claim.

While officials maintain that the fire, attributed to a short circuit, was addressed with functioning equipment, the incident has raised serious questions about fire safety protocols and the overall response to the tragedy within the state-run hospital. An investigation into the cause of the fire and the adequacy of the hospital’s safety measures is currently underway.

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