A devastating fire at a hospital in India’s Uttar Pradesh state has claimed the lives of 10 newborns, while at least 16 others are battling for survival. The fire erupted last night at the Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College's neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where at least 54 babies were being treated at the time of the incident. District Magistrate of Jhansi Avinash Kumar confirmed the casualties. Panic spread as visuals from the scene showed frantic relatives and staff outside the hospital, while inside, several medical devices were charred by the flames. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak stated that the fire was likely caused by a short-circuit in an oxygen concentrator.

Meanwhile, Jhansi SSP Sudha Singh confirmed this morning that 16 children who were injured in the blaze are currently receiving treatment at nearby hospitals. It is reported that fire alarms at the hospital did not work, with sources suggesting a lack of maintenance of emergency systems. The tragedy has sparked outrage, with the opposition in Uttar Pradesh alleging negligence by the hospital administration. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav has called for swift action against those responsible for the incident. The fire and its aftermath have raised serious questions about safety standards in public healthcare facilities, especially in critical care units in India.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan