A fire ripped through a private neonatal care facility in East Delhi’s Vivek Vihar early Sunday, killing 6 newborns. The fire is suspected to have been caused by a short circuit.
The shocking incident revealed several lapses in safety protocols. The facility, Baby Care New Born Hospital, was operating despite its registration expiring two months ago. It also lacked a qualified doctor on duty, fire clearance, and proper number of staff for the number of admitted patients.
The owner, Dr. Naveen Khichi, and Dr. Akash, who was on duty that night (but unqualified for neonatal care), were arrested. They are facing charges including negligence causing death.
One of the newborns who died was confirmed to have died before the fire, bringing the confirmed fire death toll to 6. Remaining 5 newborns who were admitted to the facility are undergoing treatment at another hospital.
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Fire officials mentioned a possible short circuit causing the fire that then spread to oxygen cylinders. The building lacked fire extinguishers and emergency exits, further endangering the lives of the patients.
Delhi Health Minister alleged communication issues with department heads and requested speedy compensation for the affected families and free treatment for the surviving newborns at the best private hospitals.
Both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal expressed condolences to the families and informed about ongoing investigations into the cause of the fire.
