Kannur (Rajeev Sharma): An 18-month-old child from Kerala, who had been battling for life after undergoing anaesthesia for treatment of a minor lip injury, has died at a hospital in Kannur. The incident has sparked concerns over the circumstances surrounding the medical procedure, with police initiating legal action against the doctor who administered the anaesthetic.
The toddler, Devansh Shouria, had reportedly suffered a cut on his lip after falling while playing at home. His parents rushed him to a private hospital in Payyannur, where doctors decided to stitch the wound under anaesthesia. Shortly after the anaesthetic was administered, the child’s health reportedly deteriorated, and he never regained consciousness.
Doctors shifted him to the hospital’s advanced care facility in Kannur, where he remained on life support for several days. Despite intensive treatment, the child passed away on Friday night.
Following a complaint lodged by the family, Payyannur police registered a case against the anaesthetist under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to acts endangering life or personal safety. Investigators are examining whether there was any negligence in the administration of anaesthesia or subsequent medical care.
The hospital has denied allegations of wrongdoing, maintaining that the child experienced an unforeseen cardiac complication immediately after receiving anaesthesia. According to the hospital management, emergency resuscitation measures were initiated without delay, and the patient was transferred to a higher medical facility for specialised treatment. The hospital further stated that established medical protocols were followed throughout the course of treatment.
The child’s death has triggered public outrage in the region. Members of the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) organised a protest outside the Payyannur hospital, demanding a thorough investigation and accountability if lapses are established.
Police officials said medical records, expert opinions and statements from hospital staff will form part of the investigation before any further legal action is taken. The post-mortem report is also expected to play a crucial role in determining the exact cause of death.
