Infant’s death at Tripura hospital sparks allegations of medical negligence

In a heartbreaking incident that has ignited public outrage, a 14-month-old infant, Anuj Debbarma, lost his life at Teliamura Sub-Division Hospital in Khowai District on Friday night, amid serious allegations of medical negligence.

The child was reportedly referred to Teliamura from Ampi Nagar Hospital at around 8:15 PM after developing acute respiratory distress. According to his father, Bishwajit Debbarma, despite the critical nature of Anuj’s condition, he was made to wait for nearly an hour without proper treatment under the care of medicine specialist Dr. Uttam Kumar Barman.

Disturbingly, despite the presence of two pediatricians—Dr. Pranoy Das and Dr. Sukanya Das—Dr. Barman allegedly failed to seek their consultation at any point during the crucial early phase of the child’s treatment. Anuj’s condition continued to deteriorate, and although the hospital eventually decided to refer him to GB Pant Hospital in Agartala, the family was unable to facilitate the transfer due to financial limitations. The baby died while still under care at Teliamura.

The situation took a controversial turn when hospital insiders claimed that the doctor arranged to send the infant’s body home just minutes before the arrival of local journalists—raising suspicions of a deliberate attempt to avoid media scrutiny.

The incident has intensified scrutiny of the hospital's pediatric services. Locals allege that while Dr. Pranoy Das resides in hospital quarters, Dr. Sukanya Das frequently absents herself and is often seen offering paid consultations at a nearby pharmacy during unofficial hours.

Dr. Barman, however, defended his actions, stating that the infant was attended to promptly and that pediatricians were involved once the child’s condition worsened.

As the tragic death grips the community in grief and anger, demands for accountability are growing louder. All attention is now focused on local MLA Kalyani Saha Roy, with the public calling for swift action and systemic reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future.