SRINAGAR, Sep 5 (Agencies): The Chief Medical Officer of Bandipora has ordered an inquiry into the death of a newborn at District Hospital Bandipora following allegations by the family of medical negligence and delay in referring the case to a higher centre.
A five-member committee constituted by the CMO has been asked to examine the circumstances surrounding the death and submit a factual report within two days for onward submission to the higher authorities.
The inquiry follows an application submitted by Mohammad Irfan Sheikh, son of Ghulam Mohammad Sheikh, a resident of Ward No. 05, Bandipora, and subsequent communication from the Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Bandipora dated August 31, 2026.
According to the order, the committee has been tasked to “enquire and examine the facts regarding alleged medical negligence at DH Bandipora.”
The panel comprises Dr Mohammad Asif Khan, Principal, ANMT School Bandipora; Dr Tahera Nazir, District Health Officer, Bandipora; Dr Shabnum, Consultant Gynaecologist, CHC Sumbal; Dr Aijaz Ahmad, Medical Officer (Paediatrician), CHC Hajin; and Muzaffar Ahmad, Senior Assistant in the office of the CMO Bandipora.
The committee has been directed to examine the facts of the case and furnish its detailed report within two days.
The newborn’s death had prompted the family to question the treatment provided at the district hospital, particularly the alleged delay in referring the mother and child to a higher medical facility.
The family had sought an impartial examination of the treatment provided to the mother and newborn, the medical decisions taken during the course of treatment and the circumstances preceding the newborn’s death.
The inquiry will now look into the sequence of events and determine the facts surrounding the allegations, including whether there were any lapses in treatment, medical management or referral.
The order has been endorsed to the Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Director Health Services Kashmir, Medical Superintendent, District Hospital Bandipora, and Block Medical Officer Hajin, among others.
The committee’s report is expected to provide a factual account of the case and indicate whether the allegations of negligence and delay in referral are substantiated.
No finding of medical negligence has been established at this stage, and the allegations are subject to the outcome of the inquiry.