RIMS INCIDENT: Human Rights panel moved for independent probe

Metro India News | Hyderabad : BC Dal national president and advocate Dundra Kumara Swamy has approached the Telangana State Human Rights Commission seeking an independent and comprehensive inquiry into the deaths of three newborns following a fire and smoke incident at the Special Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) of RIMS, Adilabad, on September 21.

Several other infants reportedly fell ill and were shifted to other hospitals following the incident. Swamy raised concerns over the hospital’s electrical systems, air-conditioning equipment, fire-safety arrangements and emergency evacuation mechanisms. He sought immediate financial assistance and appropriate compensation for the affected families, besides medical and psychological support.

Swamy also urged the State government to conduct a comprehensive safety and infrastructure audit of SNCUs, ICUs and other critical-care units in government hospitals across Telangana. The audit should cover electrical installations, fire-safety equipment, emergency exits, alarms, backup power and evacuation protocols.

He further sought action against officials found responsible after an impartial inquiry and urged that the RIMS Director/Superintendent be placed under suspension pending the probe to ensure that records and evidence are preserved. He said accountability must be fixed based on the inquiry findings and affected families provided timely relief and justice.