Thiruvananthapuram: A senior surgeon at Nedumangad District Hospital has been placed on compulsory leave after an unborn baby of a tribal woman died during a caesarean section on Tuesday. The incident — involving first-time parents Ranjana Krishnan and Binil Manohar — has prompted allegations of negligence against gynaecologist Dr Bindu Sundar, political protests and an official inquiry.

Ranjana, 36, had reportedly been under Dr Bindu’s treatment for five months. She visited the hospital on Monday with scan reports but was admitted soon afterwards.

Early Tuesday, she was shifted to the labour room for delivery. When labour did not progress, doctors decided on a caesarean section later in the afternoon and moved her to the operating theatre.

Relatives say they were informed shortly after the procedure began that the baby had died. Doctors reportedly cited the infant’s large head size. The family questioned why repeated scans had not identified the issue earlier.

The baby’s body is currently kept in the mortuary. A post-mortem at Sree Avittom Thirunal Hospital is awaited to confirm the exact cause.

Protests and police intervention

News of the death triggered protests at the hospital involving workers of the Indian National Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party and Social Democratic Party of India. Demonstrators demanded action against the medical staff.

Tensions escalated through the evening. Police intervened after protesters intercepted the doctor’s vehicle as she was leaving; officers escorted her back. Local accounts also claimed she tried to leave after allegedly concealing the incident and was stopped by residents.

Protests continued late into the night around the hospital, with reports also mentioning baton charges as the situation intensified.

Inquiry ordered amid prior complaint

Health Minister Veena George has directed an "urgent investigation". A three-member expert panel from Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College will examine the case.

Health department director Dr Reena confirmed the doctor has been asked to take compulsory leave.

Sources indicate the doctor already faces investigation over post-operative complications involving another patient. A woman reportedly suffered serious complications after delivery surgery a month earlier. During a post-delivery procedure, an episiotomy allegedly caused a two-inch rectal tear, leaving her dependent on a plastic bag for bowel movements for months. A complaint had been filed with authorities, where evidence collection is ongoing.