The Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) has issued a public statement in response to allegations of medical negligence following the death of an 8-month-old baby, confirming that an internal investigation is underway.

The case sparked national concern after the child’s family shared a detailed account on social media, claiming the baby, described as their first son born after 14 years was admitted to IGMH on June 20 with vomiting and cough, and passed away seven days later. 

In its statement, IGMH extended its deepest condolences to the grieving family and emphasized that all health-related complaints and serious cases are thoroughly investigated.

Addressing the concerns raised on social media, the hospital stated that the child’s condition was closely monitored by the medical team, who performed the necessary blood and diagnostic tests and adjusted treatment as required.

According to medical records, in addition to medical officers, a pediatrician also visited the child daily in accordance with hospital policy.

IGMH also clarified that in cases where intensive care is needed, the attending doctors initiate ICU admission procedures.

However, if the ICU is at capacity, arrangements are made to transfer the patient to another hospital with available ICU facilities.

Commenting on the nature of such critical cases, the hospital noted that

It added that such illnesses may escalate rapidly.

The hospital further stated that with any such unfortunate incident, a comprehensive internal review is undertaken to determine how care was administered and what improvements can be made to avoid recurrence.

IGMH reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing patient care and family experience during such critical situations.

Regarding the case of 8 month old child,  the family alleged that despite worsening symptoms, including abdominal bloating by the second day they were only told the baby had an unspecified infection and elevated liver enzymes.

A senior doctor reportedly assessed the child only on the fifth day, when liver failure was diagnosed.

Efforts to arrange emergency evacuation through Aasandha and NSPA reportedly came too late, with approval arriving 10 minutes after the child had passed.

CPR was administered for 15 minutes, the family said, until blood appeared from the child’s mouth and nose.

IGMH and the Health Ministry have both informed that investigation has been launched into the incident.