Prime Minister Modi Offers Condolences Following Tragic Fire at Jhansi Hospital
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow on Saturday morning following the tragic fire at Maharani Laxmibai Medical College in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, which claimed the lives of 10 newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The devastating incident occurred late Friday night, with reports indicating that the fire, likely caused by a short circuit, rapidly spread through the oxygen-rich NICU. The fire’s intensity led to the deaths of 10 infants who were being treated in the overcrowded ward.
Heartfelt Condolences and Immediate Relief Efforts
In his statement, PM Modi referred to the incident as “heartbreaking” and offered his sincere condolences to the families who tragically lost their children. His message, released through the Prime Minister’s Office, said: “This is heartbreaking! The fire at Jhansi Medical College in Uttar Pradesh is devastating. My deepest condolences to the families who have lost their innocent children in this tragedy. I pray to God for the strength to help them endure this profound loss.”
The Prime Minister assured that local authorities were actively involved in rescue and relief efforts under the supervision of the Uttar Pradesh government. “I am deeply saddened by this tragic loss, and the administration is fully committed to providing all necessary assistance to the affected families,” Modi added.
Investigation and Accountability: Authorities Respond
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brijesh Pathak visited the scene of the tragedy on Saturday, confirming that investigations were underway to determine the exact cause of the fire. The Chief Minister’s Office also announced that, following orders from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, an ex gratia payment of ₹5 lakh would be provided to the families of the deceased, while those families with injured infants would receive ₹50,000.
The fire, which reportedly began in one of the oxygen concentrators, rapidly spread through the NICU. Due to the high concentration of oxygen, which fuels flames, the blaze caused suffocation and severe burns, ultimately claiming the lives of the infants. Initial reports suggest that earlier, a short circuit in the facility had been ignored, contributing to the disaster. The Samajwadi Party has raised concerns over the hospital’s negligence, calling for accountability on the part of the authorities for not addressing the initial electrical fault.
State Government and Hospital’s Response
As investigations unfold, the Uttar Pradesh government is focusing on ensuring that the cause of the fire is fully understood and that the responsible parties are held accountable. The overcrowded NICU, which was housing 49 infants despite having a capacity of only 18 beds, has raised serious questions about the hospital’s management and preparedness for such emergencies. The incident has highlighted the critical need for stringent safety measures, particularly in hospitals that care for vulnerable newborns.
Authorities are also considering the possibility of revising safety protocols across hospitals in the state, with an emphasis on fire prevention and evacuation preparedness in critical care areas. The incident has sparked discussions about the adequacy of infrastructure and oversight in government-run healthcare facilities.
A Nation in Mourning
This tragedy has deeply affected the nation, as people across India have expressed their condolences to the grieving families. The deaths of these innocent children have resonated with the public, calling attention to the importance of ensuring that healthcare facilities, especially those providing neonatal care, are adequately equipped to prevent such incidents.
As Jhansi and the country continue to mourn the loss of young lives, the government and healthcare institutions are under increased scrutiny to improve safety standards and ensure that such a tragedy is never repeated. The families affected by this horrific fire will remain in the thoughts and prayers of many as they navigate the immense pain of their loss.
