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Synopsis

In a move reflecting concern over rising stillbirth rates due to inadequate infrastructure in government hospitals, the Chhattisgarh High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of the matter.

The bench, comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Rajani Dubey, has undertaken this action following reports published in Dainik Bhaskar dated April 29, 2024.

The statistics presented in the court painted a stark picture of infant mortality and maternal health in the region. It was highlighted that over the past five years, more than 40,000 children aged 0-5 have tragically succumbed to various ailments, with a significant number dying within 28 days of birth, with a distressing revelation of over 24,000 stillbirths.

Disturbingly, the data also reveals that more than 3,000 pregnant women lost their lives between 2019 and 2023, primarily due to factors such as anemia, malnutrition, and deficiencies within the healthcare system.

Accompanying visuals provided during the court proceedings depict multiple newborns crammed into a single warmer in government hospitals, highlighting the dire shortage of infrastructure and resources.

As per the reports, there is scarcity of beds and ventilators in government hospitals, falling short of requirements by half, which further exacerbates the challenges faced by both patients and medical personnel.

The court noted “The aforesaid news depicts an alarming situation with respect to neonatal care in the State.”

In response to these revelations, the High Court directed the State counsel to provide clarification on the news reports, and the Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Chhattisgarh, Health and Family Welfare Department (respondent No.2), was instructed to file a personal affidavit regarding the matter.

The matter has been scheduled for May 08, 2024 for the next hearing.

 

Cause Title: Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation Versus State Of Chhattisgarh