Tura/Baghmara, April 25: A probe has been demanded following the death of an 11-year-old girl who was allegedly turned away by two hospitals in Tura despite showing symptoms of suspected rabies, raising serious questions about medical negligence and denial of emergency care in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills.
The minor, identified as Netera Sangma, had been referred from Dadenggre Community Health Centre (CHC) to Tura Civil Hospital for urgent treatment. However, according to a formal complaint submitted to the Deputy Commissioner, the child was reportedly denied admission there. Her family then rushed her to Holy Cross Hospital in a desperate bid to save her life, but allegedly faced refusal again.
The child later died in an ambulance while being taken back home, with the complaint alleging that she was denied even basic emergency care or stabilization.
Filed by social activist Shri Greneth M. Sangma, the complaint terms the incident a violation of the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. It also cites the Supreme Court’s ruling in Parmanand Katara vs. Union of India, which clearly states that no hospital can refuse emergency medical treatment.
The complainant has called for an immediate judicial or magisterial inquiry to determine the circumstances under which both Tura Civil Hospital and Holy Cross Hospital denied treatment to the critically ill child. He has also demanded strict action against those responsible, along with compensation for the bereaved family.
The incident has sparked concern across the Garo Hills region, with growing calls for accountability and urgent reforms in emergency healthcare services. Authorities have yet to respond officially.
