Jhansi NICU Ward Fire: 12th Infant Passes Away, Special Inquiry Team Launches Probe To Hold Negligience Accountable

The death toll in the devastating fire at the NICU ward of Maharani Lakshmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi has climbed to 12, with another infant passing away on Monday (18 November), Hindustan Times reported.

A four-member inquiry team, led by Kinjal Singh, Director-General of Medical Education and Training, visited the site to probe the incident. The team inspected the fire-damaged ward, reviewed equipment, and recorded statements from doctors and staff. They also assessed the condition of the rescued infants and spoke with their families.

Preliminary findings suggest that 10 infants died during the fire, while two others, initially rescued, later succumbed to injuries. However, hospital authorities maintain that these fatalities resulted from underlying illnesses, not the fire.

The state government has launched a three-tier investigation, including a special inquiry committee, to determine the cause of the fire and identify any lapses. The team is expected to submit its report within a week.

Kinjal Singh stated, "We are examining all aspects of the tragedy, including potential negligence or oversights, to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents. Our main task is to see what arrangements can be made in medical colleges so that these incidents don't take place even accidentally."

A prima facie report has already been submitted by District Magistrate and Commissioner. The special team now includes experts from the fire and the electricity departments as well. After investigation, further details will be revealed.