Sat Nov 16 16:48:48 UTC 2024: ## Jhansi Hospital Fire Kills 10 Infants, Sparking Outrage and Investigations

**Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India** – A devastating fire at the neonatal ward of Rani Lakshmibai Medical College hospital in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, has claimed the lives of at least 10 infants and left over 16 others injured. The incident, which occurred around 10 PM on Friday night, has sent shockwaves through the nation and sparked widespread outrage.

At the time of the fire, 49 infants were receiving treatment in the ward. While authorities managed to rescue 37 children, the swiftness of the blaze tragically resulted in significant casualties. Witnesses described scenes of chaos and panic as parents desperately tried to save their children amidst the flames. One courageous father, identified only as Kripal, recounted rescuing 20 babies himself. Another parent, Kuldeep, described the horror of watching the fire engulf the ward while he waited with his wife for their 10-day-old son to be fed, only to be left unsure of his fate.

Initial reports suggest a short circuit may have been the cause, but investigations are underway to ascertain the exact origin of the fire. The Uttar Pradesh government has announced a three-tiered inquiry into the incident, headed by the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who expressed deep sorrow and ordered a swift investigation with a report due within 12 hours. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak visited the site and assured stringent action against those found responsible, while also promising world-class medical care for the injured children. A magisterial inquiry has also been ordered.

The tragedy has evoked painful memories of a similar incident in Delhi’s Vivek Vihar in May, prompting renewed calls for stricter safety measures in hospitals. Parents of the victims are demanding greater accountability and improved safety protocols to prevent such tragedies from recurring.

Further investigations revealed alarming safety lapses. The fire alarm system failed to activate, hampering timely evacuation efforts. Expired fire extinguishers were found on the premises. In the aftermath, Lucknow’s fire department issued notices to 80 hospitals found lacking in fire safety standards.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences and announced compensation of ₹200,000 for the families of each deceased infant and ₹50,000 for the injured. Chief Minister Adityanath similarly announced compensation of ₹500,000 for the families of deceased children and ₹50,000 for the injured. Opposition leader Akhilesh Yadav also expressed grief and urged for improved healthcare standards, while criticizing the state government. The incident has led to a widespread condemnation of the apparent negligence and highlighted the urgent need for improved safety regulations and implementation within healthcare facilities across India.

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