Assam: Public anger mounts after accident victim dies over oxygen shortage at Sribhumi hospital

A tragic incident at Sribhumi Civil Hospital has triggered public anger after a critically injured accident victim allegedly died due to the unavailability of oxygen in the emergency ward. Locals have accused the hospital of negligence and demanded an immediate inquiry.

The deceased, identified as Buddho Bhattacharjee, a library assistant at the B.Ed. College in Sribhumi town, was hit by a speeding motorcycle in a hit-and-run incident while shopping in Panerugor. Eyewitnesses rushed him to the civil hospital, where they claim the emergency oxygen supply was non-functional. An oxygen machine was later brought in but failed to operate due to a faulty electrical switchboard.

With his condition rapidly deteriorating, doctors referred Bhattacharjee to Silchar Medical College and Hospital. However, he died on the way.

Enraged by the alleged medical lapses, residents submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police, demanding a probe into the circumstances surrounding his death. A video from the hospital’s emergency ward showing the patient receiving treatment has since gone viral on social media, further fueling public outrage.

Teachers and students of the B.Ed. College paid floral tributes when his mortal remains were brought to the campus.

Ironically, despite housing two oxygen plants within its premises, Sribhumi Civil Hospital continues to face accusations of failing to provide timely and adequate healthcare services to patients.