ST report on medical negligence
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 23: The Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has recommended a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the children of a woman who died at the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Hospital, Jowai, in 2025, holding that medical negligence contributed to her death.
The Commission took up the matter suo motu following a report in The Shillong Times with the caption “Jowai MCH under fire for pregnant woman’s death” published on June 6, 2025, which highlighted allegations of negligence by hospital authorities.
An inquiry conducted by the Health & Family Welfare Department, constituted on July 7, 2025, found multiple lapses related to the treatment of the patient.
In a statement issued on Monday, MHRC Secretary L.C. Marak said the Commission, after examining the findings, concluded that the lack of due diligence on the part of medical personnel had led to the woman’s death.
“The Commission passed its final order on March 23, and forwarded it to the Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department, recommending payment of Rs 10 lakh as compensation,” Marak stated.
He added that the compensation is intended for the welfare of the deceased woman’s children.
