NHRC seeks report in infants' death in West Bengal

Taking a serious note of the recent death of infants in a government hospital in West Bengal, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) today sought a report on the issue from the state.
Notices were issued to the state Chief Secretary and Malda district magistrate by the Commission, which asked them to submit the report within four weeks.
Sixteen infants have died since May 22 in Malda medical college hospital due to malnutrition and low weight.
According to the Commission, which has taken suo motu cognisance of the deaths, the incident raises serious concerns about the infants' right to health and good nutrition.

Malda district magistrate has also formed a seven-member inquiry committee led by Chief Medical Officer to probe into the deaths. However, after the incident, rest of the children admitted in the hospital were withdrawn by their parents apprehending lax in treatment, the NHRC said.
In January, 36 infants died in the same hospital.