The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has ordered the Director of the Health and Family Welfare Department to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a newborn at AGMC & GBP Hospital, following allegations of medical negligence. The Commission has asked for a detailed inquiry report to be submitted by July 28.

The directive was issued by the Commission, headed by Chairperson Justice Arindam Lodh, after taking note of newspaper reports published on July 1 highlighting alleged lapses in the treatment of Pinki Debnath, a resident of Khowai district, and the subsequent death of her newborn.

According to the reports, Debnath had been receiving prenatal care from a gynecologist associated with a diagnostic centre near Rupashi Hall in Agartala. Her family alleged that they did not receive adequate support from the doctor during her pregnancy and at the time of delivery.

After experiencing labour pain, she was admitted to AGMC & GBP Hospital on June 13 based on medical advice. The reports claimed that the attending gynecologist did not visit the hospital the following day, after which the woman underwent a cesarean section.

The baby reportedly suffered breathing difficulties immediately after birth and was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Despite receiving treatment for 15 days, the newborn died on June 29. Doctors quoted in the reports indicated that a delay in delivery may have caused the fetus to pass meconium inside the womb, resulting in severe lung complications.

Taking note of the allegations of negligence and inaction by the medical personnel involved, the THRC observed that although the identities of the doctors had not been disclosed, the matter warranted a factual inquiry before any further action.

The Commission has instructed that copies of the newspaper reports be sent to the Director of Health and Family Welfare for a comprehensive investigation. The case has been scheduled for further hearing on July 28, 2026, when the Commission will examine the inquiry report submitted by the department.