Newborn dies at Zaheerabad Govt Hospital, family alleges lack of oxygen support

The incident took place on July 6, triggering a protest by the relatives, who gathered at the hospital and accused the staff of negligence. They claimed that the absence of doctors during a critical delivery placed both the mother and the newborn at risk and called for accountability from the health department. 

According to The New Indian Express, with doctors reportedly unavailable, the delivery was conducted by nurses and ayahs. After birth, the newborn developed breathing complications and was shifted to the ICU. Despite efforts, the infant could not be saved, allegedly due to a lack of oxygen support. The report said Sudarshan, a resident of Potpally village in Jarasangam mandal, had brought his wife, Manohara, to the hospital for delivery, but no doctors were reportedly present when she went into labour. 

Following the baby's death, Zaheerabad MLA Manick Rao visited the hospital and alleged that there were not enough doctors on duty at the time of the delivery. He urged the Telangana government to investigate the incident and take strict action against anyone found responsible for the alleged lapse, reports The Siasat Daily.

Hospital authorities have not yet released a detailed statement addressing the family's allegations. It also remains unclear whether the state health department has ordered an official inquiry into the incident.

The incident has once again brought attention to the challenges faced by government hospitals in providing timely maternal and neonatal care, especially in facilities struggling with staff shortages and limited emergency resources.