Semblance of justice

TWO years after he was suspended and jailed following the death of infants due to alleged lack of oxygen supply at the state-run BRD Medical College in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, a government inquiry has absolved Dr Kafeel Khan of the charge of medical negligence. But he continues to remain suspended and has demanded a CBI inquiry into the case. The incident took place in CM Yogi Adityanath’s backyard. About 60 infants died in 48 hours due to the shortage of oxygen over non-payment of dues to the supplier. That the supply of oxygen cylinders, so essential for patients in critical condition, could be cut, reeked of both negligence and callousness. 

Investigations had refrained from blaming the state government but the hospital staff was charged with criminal negligence and the principal of the medical college and hospital was suspended and he subsequently resigned. Dr Kafeel Khan, who headed the encephalitis department, has maintained that he made all efforts to save the lives of the children, even going out to procure the oxygen cylinders himself, but was ‘vilified, put through harassment and suspended’. The company that supplied the cylinders had stated that it suspected ‘theft or racket’ even as the debate raged over non-payment of dues to it. 

While a semblance of justice has been done to Dr Khan, there is a need to review the healthcare system and fix responsibility. The hospital concerned is supposed to be among the biggest in the state and the CM should ensure that his constituency doesn’t become an epitome of malfeasance. Adequate number of doctors and support staff should be recruited. The doctor concerned belongs to a minority community and efforts should be made to allay doubts over the absence of fair play. Bihar, a neighbouring state, also needs to learn lessons, with children dying of encephalitis in Muzaffarpur district.