Bageshwar infant death: Uttarakhand government orders fresh probe after gaps in initial report

The Uttarakhand government has ordered a detailed investigation into the death of a one-year-old child, Shivang Joshi, at the Bageshwar District Hospital, after expressing dissatisfaction with the initial inquiry report submitted by a three-member committee.

Health secretary Dr R Rajesh Kumar, following directions from chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami , reviewed the preliminary findings and found that the report lacked clarity regarding the seriousness of the treatment and the medical basis for referring the patient. Terming the matter sensitive, the health secretary has assigned the case to the district magistrate of Bageshwar for a more thorough investigation.

The district magistrate has been asked to hear all sides, examine the facts in detail and submit a comprehensive report to the government. Officials stated that the probe will be fair, transparent and time-bound.

In reviewing the earlier report, Dr Kumar found that important details were missing, including the child’s condition at the time of admission, family statements and a clear record of the treatment provided. As a result, show cause notices have been issued to the three committee members:

Dr Tapan Sharma, Chief Medical Superintendent

Dr. Anupama Hayanki, Additional Chief Medical Officer

Dr. Pramod Singh Jangpangi, Senior Medical Officer

A notice was also served to the concerned pediatrician, Dr Akint Kumar. All have been asked to respond within seven working days.

In addition, the health department is initiating steps to set up an independent high-level committee to ensure impartiality in the investigation.

Dr Kumar stated that the case is being taken seriously and that the department will review relevant policies and procedures to prevent such incidents in the future. He added that strengthening accountability and transparency in healthcare services remains a key priority.