Guwahati: Margherita, Assam, was gripped by unrest following the tragic death of Kamla Sharma, a pregnant woman who allegedly fell victim to medical negligence at Mayflower Hospital. The incident has ignited protests, drawing attention to healthcare standards in the region.
Kamla, hailing from Jagun and married to Vijay Gautam, was admitted to the hospital on Wednesday. She delivered a healthy baby boy under the care of Dr. Rajesh Gupta at midnight. However, her condition deteriorated rapidly the next day. Despite efforts to stabilize her, she was referred to Dibrugarh for advanced treatment, where she tragically passed away.
The incident sparked outrage among local organizations, including the Chhatra Mukti Sangram Samiti (CMSS), and Kamla’s grieving family. Accusations of negligence were leveled against Mayflower Hospital and Dr. Gupta, with protesters demanding accountability. Demonstrators blocked the Margherita highway, burning tyres and clashing with law enforcement in a tense standoff.
This tragedy adds to a string of maternal and newborn deaths in the Margherita area, with similar incidents reported at two other nursing homes recently. The frequency of such cases has heightened public anger, fueling calls for systemic reforms in local healthcare facilities.
The CMSS has demanded the immediate arrest of Dr. Gupta and an overhaul of standards at Mayflower Hospital. The organization warned of intensified protests if their demands are not addressed promptly. As the investigation continues, the incident underscores the urgent need for improved maternal care and accountability in Assam’s healthcare system.