Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud has called for immediate clarifications regarding the unnatural deaths reported at a Kolkata hospital, following a plea by senior advocate Kapil Sibal. The plea submitted to the Supreme Court highlighted that 23 individuals have lost their lives due to alleged inadequate medical treatment at the hospital, sparking widespread concern and protests.

During a special hearing held on Monday, CJI Chandrachud expressed deep concerns over the situation, demanding an explanation from the hospital authorities and state officials regarding the circumstances leading to these deaths. “We need clarifications on the unnatural deaths that have occurred at the hospital. It is a serious matter that requires an immediate and comprehensive response,” stated CJI Chandrachud, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

Allegations of Medical Negligence

The case came to light after Kapil Sibal presented a petition alleging that 23 patients had died due to inadequate medical treatment provided by the hospital in Kolkata. The petition further accused the hospital of neglecting its duty to provide basic care, resulting in a series of preventable deaths. Sibal argued that the lack of proper facilities, medical staff, and resources had exacerbated the situation, calling for urgent intervention from the highest court in the country.

CJI Chandrachud, taking cognizance of the matter, asked for a detailed report on the deaths and ordered an inquiry to determine the causes. “We need to understand what went wrong and how such a large number of deaths could occur under the watch of medical professionals,” said the Chief Justice. He also raised concerns over the impact of the ongoing doctors’ protest on the functioning of the hospital and the availability of medical care to the public.

Order to Resume Duties by 5 PM

In a stern directive, CJI Chandrachud ordered the protesting doctors to return to their duties by 5 PM on Tuesday, failing which the State Government would be authorised to take adverse action against them. The Chief Justice underscored the need for medical professionals to prioritise their duties, especially in a critical situation involving multiple deaths. “The doctors must resume work immediately. The lives of patients are at stake, and any further delay in medical services is unacceptable,” he added.

The ongoing protest by doctors at the Kolkata hospital has been a contentious issue, with medical professionals raising concerns over inadequate working conditions and lack of support from the administration. However, CJI Chandrachud made it clear that the immediate focus should be on saving lives and ensuring that the hospital operates smoothly to prevent further fatalities.

State Government’s Role and Response

The State Government of West Bengal has been directed to provide all necessary support to the inquiry and ensure that the hospital remains fully functional during this period. In response to the court’s order, a spokesperson from the State Health Department stated, “We are fully committed to cooperating with the Supreme Court’s directives. The safety and well-being of our citizens are our top priority, and we will take all necessary measures to address the concerns raised by the court.”

The developments in the case are being closely monitored, with the Supreme Court expected to receive a detailed report on the situation in the coming days. Meanwhile, the families of the deceased patients continue to seek justice, demanding accountability from those responsible for the tragic loss of lives.

Calls for Accountability

As the inquiry unfolds, there are growing calls from civil society and human rights organisations for transparency and accountability in handling the matter. The situation has drawn attention to the broader issues of healthcare management and the need for reform to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.