A youth’s death following a surgical procedure at Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR), Burla, on Monday triggered protests in Sambalpur. Family members alleged medical negligence and improper post-operative treatment.

The deceased, identified as Sanket Sahu of Sambalpur, was reportedly admitted to Burla Medical College and Hospital on May 13 for surgery. 

According to allegations made by the family, his health deteriorated after the operation, prompting his transfer to a private hospital in Bhubaneswar for advanced treatment. He passed away on Monday.

Following the arrival of his body in Sambalpur, family members staged a road protest, demanding an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his death. They alleged that negligence during treatment and aftercare at VIMSAR led to complications affecting his lungs and liver.

Family Alleges Negligence After Minor Surgery

The family accused doctors at Burla Medical College and Hospital of failing to provide proper treatment following what they described as a minor surgical procedure.

The allegations sparked public concern, with protesters demanding accountability and a thorough investigation into the treatment provided to Sanket after the operation.

Administration Assures Inquiry

Sambalpur Sub-Collector Puspanjali Panda said the administration had initiated steps to examine the allegations.

“This is an unfortunate incident. Based on the family’s allegations of medical negligence and improper treatment, we visited the spot and conducted a preliminary inquiry. The administration assured the family that an investigation will be carried out at the Directorate of Medical Education and Training (DMET) level. If medical negligence is established, those responsible will face action,” she said.

Providing details of the case, Panda added, “The family stated that Sanket underwent a minor surgery for nasal polyp removal at VIMSAR, Burla. According to them, his condition deteriorated after the procedure and he was later referred to Bhubaneswar for better treatment. They sought an inquiry into the treatment and care provided after the surgery.”

Financial Assistance Extended

Panda said the district administration had already recommended an inquiry and requested that it be completed at the earliest.

“As Sanket was the sole earning member of the family, assistance of Rs 1 lakh was provided from the district fund. Support from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund was also sanctioned. Considering the family’s poor financial condition, a house under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana was allotted to them and all possible assistance at the district administration level was extended,” she said.

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Meanwhile, no response from the authorities of Burla Medical College and Hospital regarding the allegations was made at the time of reporting.