Human Rights Commission launches investigation into newborn’s death in Kerala hospital

Sun Feb 22 07:50:15 UTC 2026: # Newborn Death at Kerala Hospital Sparks Investigation and Protests

The Story:
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has launched an investigation into the death of a newborn baby at the Nedumangad taluk hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. The baby died shortly after being delivered via C-section on February 17, 2026. The investigation was prompted by a complaint filed by activist Saithali Kaipadi, alleging medical negligence and demanding action against the responsible doctor. The incident has triggered significant protests by the family and political groups, who claim the delay in performing the C-section contributed to the baby’s death.

Key Points:

• The incident occurred on February 17, 2026, at the Nedumangad taluk hospital in Thiruvananthapuram.
• Ranjana Krishnan was admitted for a third-trimester antenatal check-up on February 16, 2026, and advised immediate admission.
• Labor was induced on the morning of February 17, 2026, but a C-section was not performed until around 2:20 p.m.
• The family alleges that the doctor failed to communicate potential complications and delayed the C-section.
• Protests erupted at the hospital, with the family refusing to accept the baby’s body.
• K.J. Reena, Director of Health Services, directed Bindu Sundar, a gynaecologist and RMO at the taluk hospital, to go on forced leave on February 18, 2026.
• The District Medical Officer has been ordered to submit an investigation report within a month.

Key Takeaways:

• The death of the newborn highlights potential issues with the timeliness and communication surrounding C-section procedures at the Nedumangad taluk hospital.
• Public trust in the hospital has been severely shaken, as evidenced by the intense protests and refusal to accept the baby’s body.
• The swift response from the Director of Health Services, including placing the gynaecologist on forced leave, indicates the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the allegations of medical negligence.
• The Kerala State Human Rights Commission’s investigation will be crucial in determining whether negligence occurred and what measures need to be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
• The incident underscores the importance of clear communication between medical professionals and patients/families regarding potential risks and treatment plans.

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