Death of mother, newborn: HC summons JJ dean

The Bombay High Court on Tuesday directed the dean of JJ Hospital to remain present in court on Wednesday to explain whether regular inspections were conducted at maternity hospitals to check if they have required permissions and basic facilities.

- Urvi Mahajani

On April 29, a woman and her newborn died at a maternity home in Bhandup due to alleged negligence on the part of hospital authorities. Her husband had filed a petition in HC alleging medical negligence. The plea stated that the delivery had taken place at Sushma Swaraj Maternity Home at Bhandup (West) using flashlights of mobile phones due to a power failure. The newborn died in Bhandup hospital, whereas the woman died shortly after being moved to Sion hospital.

• Court asks dean to explain whether regular inspections are conducted at maternity hospitals to check if they have required permissions and basic facilities

• Questions how the generator at a hospital can be nonfunctional