Hyderabad: A four-month-old boy died during treatment at a private hospital in Mancherial, setting off protests and claims of medical negligence. The incident occurred at Raghavendra Children’s Hospital near the district bus stand and emerged on Thursday morning.
Family alleges doctor failed to act during emergency
The infant, Karthik, was the son of Shekar and Soundarya from Jagtial district. The couple had relocated to Devapur in Kasipet mandal four months earlier. On Tuesday, they brought the child to the hospital due to breathing issues.
Relatives stated that the attending doctor admitted the infant and started treatment. However, on Wednesday night, the child developed a cardiac complication. The parents claimed the doctor neither informed them nor responded promptly, which, they alleged, resulted in the boy’s death.
In protest, the grieving family and relatives smashed glass panels at the hospital and demanded strict action against the staff they hold responsible.
Police promise full investigation and legal action
Mancherial Town CI Pramod Rao reached the hospital with a police team to restore order. He assured the parents that authorities would investigate thoroughly once a formal complaint is submitted. If negligence is confirmed, appropriate legal action will follow.
Doctor defends care, attributes death to hidden cardiac issue
Dr. Satish Kumar, the hospital physician, denied the negligence claim. He said the child was admitted on November 18 with a respiratory problem and received timely care.
According to him, while the mother was feeding the child on Wednesday night, the baby suffered a sudden cardiac issue not previously identified. He said he provided immediate first aid and advised the family to consult a cardiologist in Karimnagar or Hyderabad. However, he added that the family delayed acting on that recommendation, which worsened the situation.