SRINAGAR: Serious questions have been raised over maternal healthcare services in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district after a woman allegedly delivered her baby on a roadside shortly after being discharged from the District Hospital Bandipora.
The woman, identified as Hafeeza Begum of the Chechinar area of Aloosa, was admitted to the hospital on June 17 after reaching her expected date of delivery, according to her family. They alleged that she remained under observation in the labour room throughout the night before being discharged on June 18 at around 4 pm.
According to a written complaint submitted by her husband, doctors initially decided to refer her to a hospital in Srinagar for further management. However, the family requested that the delivery be conducted at District Hospital Bandipora, citing financial constraints and difficulties in arranging transportation.
The family alleged that after further observation, doctors informed them that labour had not yet commenced and advised them to return home, stating that delivery was expected after approximately two weeks.
However, while travelling back to Aloosa, Hafeeza Begum reportedly developed severe labour pains and delivered a baby on the roadside within minutes of leaving the hospital.
The unexpected childbirth triggered panic among family members and passersby, who rushed to assist the mother and newborn.
The incident has sparked outrage among residents, many of whom questioned how a woman who had spent the night under observation in a labour room could be discharged shortly before going into labour.
Locals also referred to a recent incident in which another woman reportedly delivered a baby inside an ambulance, alleging that such cases point to shortcomings in maternal healthcare services and patient assessment.
“This is not merely an isolated incident; it raises serious concerns about the quality of medical evaluation and monitoring of pregnant women. Every expectant mother deserves safe and dignified childbirth under proper medical supervision,” local resident Owais Ahmad said.
The family has demanded a thorough investigation into the incident and action against those found responsible.
Taking cognisance of the matter, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Bandipora has constituted a five-member inquiry committee to examine the circumstances that led to the roadside delivery.
According to an official order, the committee has been directed to conduct a detailed inquiry and submit a factual report within two days.
The committee comprises Dr Nisar Ahmad Ganie as chairman, Dr Tahera Nazir, District Health Officer Bandipora, Dr Manzoor Ahmad, Consultant Surgeon, CHC Sumbal, Dr Shabnum Ara, Consultant Gynaecologist, Block Hajan, and Junaid Ahmad, Head Assistant.
The order further directs the Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Bandipora to ensure the availability of all concerned doctors and officials before the committee during the course of the inquiry. (KNO)
