Death Toll Rises to Five: CM Orders Stern Action Over Maternal Deaths in Ballari

The recent maternal deaths in Ballari District Hospital have sparked a serious discussion in the Karnataka Cabinet meeting held on Friday. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed his deep concern over the incident, asserting that such lapses would not be tolerated under his administration. He directed officials to take immediate and uncompromising action against those responsible for the tragedy.

Death Toll Rises to Five

The number of postpartum deaths at the Ballari hospital has now risen to five, following the death of another patient. Earlier, four women succumbed after being administered intravenous fluids post-cesarean delivery on November 9. Reports indicate that within two hours of administration, the women began showing signs of severe health deterioration, leading to critical complications.

Out of the nine women affected, five have died, while four have been treated and discharged. Among the survivors, some were reported to have suffered from kidney failure and multi-organ failure. Additionally, three patients were diagnosed with leptospirosis (rat fever).

An investigation by the Karnataka State Drugs Logistics and Warehousing department revealed that the IV Ringer’s Lactate solution used was unsuitable for medical administration. Despite this, the solution was reportedly administered, raising questions about oversight and accountability within the hospital.

Cabinet Meeting Discussion

During the Cabinet meeting at Vidhana Soudha, CM Siddaramaiah directed health department officials to conduct a thorough review of the incident. “Such incidents cannot happen in my government. Immediate and strict action must be taken against those found guilty, without any hesitation,” he stated.