Tue Dec 17 14:30:26 UTC 2024: ## Karnataka Govt. Opens Inquiry into Maternal Deaths Amidst Substandard Drug Concerns

**Belagavi, Karnataka – December 17, 2024** – The Karnataka government has announced its willingness to fully cooperate with any investigation into a recent surge of maternal deaths at a Ballari district hospital. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stated on Tuesday that he welcomes inquiries from various bodies, including a special investigation team, the Lokayukta, a joint legislature committee, or a judicial inquiry, believing such investigations will help improve the healthcare system.

The announcement follows concerns raised by 25 legislators across party lines regarding five recent maternal deaths in Ballari. Legislators argued that these deaths represent a broader problem of high maternal mortality rates across the state’s government hospitals, with some even suggesting possible pharmaceutical company involvement.

Minister Rao detailed the government’s response, including the formation of an expert team from the Rajiv Gandhi Health Sciences University and the suspension of use of a substandard intravenous fluid, Ringer’s lactate solution, manufactured by Paschim Banga Pharmaceutical. While a central government lab deemed the drug safe, the company has been blacklisted twice previously, though court orders prevented enforcement.

Legislators raised concerns about the need for a thorough investigation to identify those responsible, ranging from technicians and nurses to doctors and administrators. Further criticism targeted the lack of a clear chain of command in teaching hospitals, where doctors report to the National Medical Council while other staff answer to the state government. Calls for administrative reform followed.

The high maternal mortality rate in Karnataka, particularly in Chickballapur district, was highlighted as a serious issue, with some members advocating for free healthcare and education for the children left orphaned by the recent deaths. The government’s commitment to a transparent inquiry aims to address these concerns and improve maternal healthcare across the state.

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