Kannur: The State Human Rights Commission has found serious medical negligence and legal violations in the case of the death of a 17-year-old following throat surgery. The shocking revelation that both the doctor who performed the surgery and the private clinic where treatment was given lacked the required official registration emerged during the Commission's investigation. Based on findings of serious lapses in treatment and subsequent emergency care, the Commission has ordered a reinvestigation into the case.
The Human Rights Commission has strongly criticized the investigation conducted by the District Medical Officer (DMO) and the police, who had closed the case stating there was no treatment lapse. The Commission found that the investigative team ended the proceedings without even verifying fundamental issues such as whether the doctor performing the surgery had the necessary legal registration or whether the clinic was a recognized establishment.
The patient, Suryajith (17) from Kannur, died in July 2024 following throat surgery performed at Priya ENT Clinic in Kannur. On the second day after surgery, the boy developed serious health issues, including vomiting blood. Despite being shifted to another private hospital due to deteriorating condition, his life could not be saved.
The family alleged that the clinic was negligent both in monitoring the child's health after surgery and in providing timely emergency care when serious complications arose. They filed complaints with the police and the Health Department, claiming that their son's death was due to medical negligence.
Initial examination by the District Medical Officer found deficiencies in providing emergency treatment and care. However, a subsequent medical board investigation involving the DMO reported no lapses on the part of the treating doctor. This report formed the basis for terminating further proceedings.
The family strongly protested after a report favorable to the doctor was produced despite earlier findings of treatment lapses. Claiming inconsistencies in the investigation and denial of justice, they approached the State Human Rights Commission.
It was during the Commission's inquiry that critical information regarding the registration status of the doctor and clinic came to light. The Commission assessed it as grave that even basic verifications about the legal qualifications for treatment and authorization of the institution had not been conducted in previous investigations.
When probing complaints of medical negligence, the investigation must comprehensively examine the doctor’s registration, legal approval of the healthcare facility, post-surgical care, and handling of emergency situations. The failure to undertake such measures undermines the credibility of the investigation, the Commission noted.
With the Commission ordering a thorough reinvestigation, the case is once again entering a crucial phase. It is expected that legal violations related to the operation of the doctor and clinic, as well as shortcomings in earlier inquiries, will be thoroughly examined.
The Human Rights Commission’s intervention has given new hope to the grieving family seeking justice and legal action against those responsible for their son’s death. Meanwhile, the incident raises serious questions about the vigilance of authorities tasked with ensuring the registration, licensing, and safety standards of private healthcare institutions.
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Original Malayalam report: Malayalam Daily News
