Odisha Doc in Trouble for cutting Patient’s Oesophagus

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notice to the Odisha government over a serious negligence at sterilization camp in Rayagada. A callous surgeon has cut up the oesophagus (food pipe) of the patient during a sterilization surgery at a Community Health Centre. The mishap took place at the Ramanaguda Community Health Center on December 27, 2014. The patient is identified as Sarita Padhi of Limapadar village under Gunupur block of Rayagada district.

Acting on a complaint filed by human rights defender Akhand, the apex rights panel has directed Principal Secretary, Department of Health and Family Welfare, to submit action taken report in the matter within four weeks. Sarita, along with four others, visited the Ramanaguda Community Health Centre along with an ‘Asha Worker’ to get the surgery done. However, the doctor, while doing the surgery, erroneously slashed the food pipe following which she was shifted to the private hospital invizag.

Health officials especially the CDMO is not serious on the matter. He said that “We can only know the truth after Additional District Medical Office (ADMO) of Rayagada visits the Ramanaguda Community Health Centre and submits the report, alleged Akhand. Akhand prayed before commission for an impartial inquiry into the matter and compensation to the victim.