19-Month-Old Loses Vision After Hospital Treatment in MP; Family Alleges Medical Negligence
A 19-month-old child from Madhya Pradesh’s Sagar district has reportedly lost his eyesight following treatment at a government hospital, triggering allegations of medical negligence and an official inquiry into the incident.
The child, Vinay Vishwakarma, was taken by his father, Indraj Vishwakarma, to a civil hospital in Banda on May 29 after developing cold-like symptoms along with redness in his eyes. According to the family’s complaint, a government doctor on duty examined the child and allegedly administered saline nasal drops directly into the child’s eyes during treatment.
The family further claimed that the child was also prescribed multiple medications, including paracetamol syrup, an injection and other drugs. They said the baby’s condition deteriorated within a few hours of the treatment, prompting immediate concern.
As the situation worsened, the family first took the child to the district hospital in Sagar, where doctors referred him to a higher medical centre for specialised care. He was later shifted to AIIMS Bhopal for advanced treatment.
According to the complaint, doctors at AIIMS informed the family that the child had suffered permanent loss of vision. The father has alleged that medical experts suggested the damage could be linked to incorrect treatment or possible negligence during the initial care at the civil hospital.
Following the incident, Indraj Vishwakarma lodged a complaint at Banda police station, seeking action against the doctor and hospital staff involved. He stated that he could not identify the doctor by name but would be able to recognise him if shown.
Local health authorities have initiated an inquiry into the matter. Block Medical Officer Yogendra Khatik confirmed that a committee has been formed by the Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) to investigate the allegations and determine whether any lapses occurred in the treatment process.
Officials said further action will depend on the findings of the probe, while the family has demanded strict punishment if negligence is established.
