Jhansi Medical College Tragedy: Ten Infants Die in Fire, PM Announces Compensation; Calls Incident Heartbreaking

Jhansi : A massive fire broke out in the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College, Jhansi, resulting in the tragic death of 10 newborns due to burns and suffocation. Divisional Commissioner Bimal Kumar Dubey stated that 55 newborns were admitted to the affected ward. While 45 infants were safely rescued and are currently receiving treatment, the loss of 10 lives has left the nation in mourning.

The Uttar Pradesh government, the central government, and the PM’s relief fund have all announced compensation for the victims’ families. The Uttar Pradesh government has pledged ₹5 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.

Immediate Rescue and Relief Measures

As soon as the incident was reported, around 15 fire tenders rushed to the scene. The army was also called in to assist in firefighting efforts. Together, they successfully extinguished the fire. The injured infants are receiving the best possible medical care and are expected to recover soon. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak visited the medical college on Saturday morning to oversee the situation.

PM Expresses Condolences

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident. A statement from the PMO on X (formerly Twitter) described the tragedy as “heartbreaking.” PM Modi extended his condolences to the grieving families, stating, “The fire incident at Jhansi Medical College in Uttar Pradesh is deeply distressing. My heartfelt sympathies are with those who have lost their innocent children. May God grant them strength to endure this immense grief.”

Investigations and Further Action

Deputy CM Pathak described the deaths of the newborns as extremely unfortunate and assured that the administration is making efforts to identify the bodies with the help of the families. Three levels of investigation have been ordered:

1. An administrative inquiry by the health department.
2. A police investigation involving the fire department.
3. A magisterial inquiry to determine the cause of the fire.

Strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible. The government has also emphasized its commitment to the victims’ families.

Previous Safety Audits

It was revealed that a fire safety audit had been conducted in February, followed by a mock drill in June. Officials stated that the exact cause of the fire will only be determined after the investigation reports are submitted. Any negligence found will lead to stringent action against the responsible parties.