Stray dog snatches Newborn in after woman gives birth in hospital's toilet

Bankura (The Uttam Hindu): A tragic and shocking incident has been reported at Sonamukhi Rural Hospital in Bankura, West Bengal, where a stray dog allegedly carried off a premature baby born to a woman who had come to the hospital for delivery. The incident occurred on November 18, involving Priya Roy, a woman from Kochdihi village.

Priya, who was suffering from severe stomach pain, was rushed to the hospital and directed to provide a urine sample. While waiting to be admitted, she unexpectedly delivered a six-month-old premature baby in the hospital washroom. As the baby lay unattended, a stray dog, roaming on the premises, allegedly carried the newborn away. Despite attempts to chase the dog, the baby could not be retrieved.

Family members of Priya, who had accompanied her to the hospital, claimed that when they sought help from hospital staff, their requests were ignored. They alleged that hospital staff responded slowly, leaving the baby unattended in the washroom while they tended to Priya. By the time they returned to check on the baby, it had already been taken by the dog. Shockingly, stray dogs were reportedly present in the hospital compound even after the incident.

Hospital authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. Minakshi Maity, Deputy CMOH of Bishnupur Health District, stated that preliminary findings raised doubts about some of the family’s claims, including the gestational age of the baby. She also suggested that a photo provided by the family was “fabricated.” However, Priya insisted that she was six months pregnant and denied the accusations regarding incorrect medical records.

The incident led to an altercation between the family and the hospital staff, prompting a visit from the police, who began their investigation. Representatives from the Bishnupur Health District, including two deputy CMOHs, conducted an on-site inquiry, gathering evidence and questioning staff.

The incident has sparked outrage, with the BJP criticizing the Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government. Amit Malviya, BJP IT Cell chief, shared the victim’s ordeal on social media, condemning the state’s medical facilities and the leadership of Mamata Banerjee. He called the incident “appalling and heartbreaking,” pointing out the lack of medical attention Priya received and the tragic outcome involving the stray dog.