A teacher lost his life at the Dharamgarh Sub-Divisional Hospital in Kalahandi district after an alleged shortage of oxygen created panic among relatives and staff.
Sudhanshu Shekhar Sahu, 51, worked at Gorla High School in Nuapada district. He visited his native village, Chilipa, when he experienced breathing difficulties. Relatives rushed him to the Dharamgarh hospital, where doctors placed him on an electric oscillator. His oxygen levels dropped further, and doctors asked for cylinders. The pharmacist reportedly said none were available.
Relatives contacted a local legislator for help. An oxygen cylinder eventually reached the hospital, but Sudhanshu had already died. Family members accused negligence and demanded strict action against those responsible.
The incident triggered unrest in the hospital premises. Police intervened and calmed the situation. Hospital staff faced questions from the public, while family members alleged that the delay in arranging oxygen caused the death.
Sub-Divisional Medical Officer Dr Sadanand Panigrahi stated that the patient was in an acute condition. He said the attending doctor referred Sudhanshu to Bhawanipatna District Hospital. He denied negligence claims.
The funeral took place in the village cremation ground. His son Mihir Ranjan performed the last rites. Teachers and staff from Gorla High School joined the family and expressed condolences.
Sudhanshu was the only earning member of his family. Relatives demanded that the government provide a job to one family member to support them after the tragedy. The demand highlighted the family’s struggle and the community’s concern over healthcare facilities.
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