Child dies after anaesthesia, two doctors taken into police custody in Kushtia

A six-year-old child died after being administered anaesthesia during surgery at a private hospital in the Mollahteria area of Kushtia town on Monday night, April 27.

The deceased is Tasnia Afrin, daughter of Tarikul Islam of Sanpukur village in Kumarkhali upazila.

According to the family, Tasnia had fallen from stairs at home a few days ago, injuring her hand. After receiving treatment locally with no improvement, she was taken to a hospital in the town on Monday evening. Doctors advised surgery, and the family agreed.

The child was taken to the operation theatre after evening. Within moments of anaesthesia being administered, she died, family members alleged. Relatives became distraught upon hearing the news.

Following the incident, angry relatives and locals vandalised the hospital. Police arrived and brought the situation under control. Police and army personnel remained stationed there until night. Two doctors have been taken into police custody in connection with the incident.

Relatives alleged that the child died due to negligence and erroneous treatment by the doctors. They have demanded a fair investigation and exemplary punishment for those responsible.

Meanwhile, the anaesthesiologist concerned said the child's preliminary physical examination was normal. Her sudden death after anaesthesia could also be due to cardiac reasons, he speculated.

Health officials said such incidents can occur due to errors in anaesthesia administration or use of substandard drugs. However, they said the actual cause would be known after receiving the post-mortem report.

The district health department said the matter is being investigated to determine whether any medical negligence occurred.

Police said legal action will be taken after receiving a written complaint from the family. The situation is currently under control.