Probe Intensifies Into Kota Hospital Deaths; 24 Medicines Banned

May 10, 2026

Jaipur: The Rajasthan government has intensified its investigation into the deaths of two women following Caesarean deliveries at Kota Medical College, while several other patients reportedly fell critically ill after treatment.

In response to the incident, authorities have initiated major administrative action and suspended the use of 24 medicines and medical devices across the state pending laboratory examination.

State Government Suspends Use of Medicines and Medical Supplies

The Drug Control Department has banned the sale, distribution and use of 24 medicines and medical devices until further orders. The restricted items include injections, glucose bottles, IV sets, syringes, catheters and other medical supplies commonly used during surgeries and postnatal care.

Drug Controller Ajay Phatak issued directives to the Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation Limited (RMSCL) and medicine suppliers, instructing them not to distribute or use the identified medicines and devices until testing is completed.

Officials stated that these products will remain barred from use in all government hospitals and medical colleges across Rajasthan until laboratory reports are received.

Samples Sent for Laboratory Testing

According to officials, 15 of the medicines and medical devices under scrutiny were supplied to Kota Medical College by RMSCL, while the remaining nine items were procured locally by the hospital administration.

Samples of all medicines and devices have been sent for laboratory analysis to determine whether contamination or quality issues contributed to the incident.

Preliminary Inquiry Points to Alleged Negligence

The controversy emerged after two women died following Caesarean operations at Kota Medical College and several other patients reportedly developed serious complications.

Following mounting public concern, the state Medical Department ordered a high-level investigation into the matter.

Preliminary findings reportedly indicated negligence by doctors and nursing staff, leading to disciplinary action against several medical personnel.

Doctor Removed, Staff Suspended

Dr Shraddha Upadhyay, who was serving on an Urgent Temporary Basis (UTB), has been removed from service in connection with the case.

Additionally, two nursing staff members and Dr Navneet Kumar, Assistant Professor in the Surgery Department, have been suspended.

Show-cause notices have also been issued to the ward in-charge and other healthcare workers involved in patient care.

Inquiry Finds Senior Doctors Allegedly Absent

According to inquiry findings, senior doctors were reportedly absent from the post-gynaecology ward, leaving patient management largely to resident doctors during the critical period.

State Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar said a detailed investigation is underway and assured strict action against anyone found guilty.

Congress Forms Separate Inquiry Committee

Meanwhile, the Indian National Congress has formed a four-member inquiry committee to independently examine the incident and has sought a report within three days.

Further investigation into the matter is ongoing.