A devastating fire at Jhansi Medical College’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) on November 15, 2024, claimed the lives of 10 infants. The fire, reportedly caused by a short circuit in an oxygen concentrator, spread rapidly due to the highly oxygenated environment, leaving the ward charred. Many infants were rescued, but others sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment​.

BIG BREAKING:

At least 10 children killed after a massive fire broke out at a neonatal ward of the Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Uttar Pradesh's #Jhansi.

Meanwhile Yogi is busy celebrating functions & spreading communal slogans in Maharashtra. 😤😒 pic.twitter.com/53Mp1VT49j

— Mahua Moitra Fans (@MahuaMoitraFans) November 15, 2024

Government Response

• Compensation: The Uttar Pradesh government announced ₹5 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak to oversee rescue efforts and investigate negligence​.
• Probe: A magisterial inquiry has been launched to determine the cause of the fire and the lapses involved​.

Reactions

• Opposition Leaders: Akhilesh Yadav (Samajwadi Party) and Mayawati (Bahujan Samaj Party) expressed grief and demanded strict punitive actions against those responsible for the negligence. They highlighted concerns over healthcare management lapses.
• Local Administration: Jhansi District Magistrate Avinash Kumar assured victims’ families of a transparent briefing. The Chief Medical Superintendent revealed that 54 babies were in the ward at the time, and quick efforts were made to control the fire​.

Human Impact

Parents of the affected infants recounted heartbreaking experiences, with one family describing their loss after a month-long hospital stay. Many families are demanding accountability and justice for the victims​.

This tragedy has raised critical questions about safety protocols in healthcare facilities, including the maintenance of life-saving equipment. The incident highlights the urgent need for stricter safety audits in hospitals to prevent such catastrophes.