Postpartum death case file lost in ministry, agreement pending for seven years

Dhangadhi: The Ministry of Social Development of Sudurpaschim Province has lost the file related to a postpartum death case, raising concerns over the implementation of an agreement reached seven years ago. The file pertains to the death of 22-year-old Rekha Thapa of Jugeda, Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City-12, who passed away three days after undergoing surgery.

Thapa died while receiving treatment at Seti Provincial Hospital on Chaitra 4, 2075 BS. At the time, protests had alleged medical negligence in the case. On Chaitra 8, an agreement was reached between Seti Provincial Hospital, the Ministry of Social Development, Dhangadhi Sub-metropolitan City, and the victim’s family.

The agreement outlined that a committee would be formed to investigate the incident, the child would receive free treatment, and the Ministry of Social Development would ensure the child’s education and upbringing. However, the family reports that the agreement has not been implemented even after seven years.

Jaya Bahadur Thapa, the deceased’s husband, stated that he had submitted a file to the ministry after a year, but it has now gone missing. On Monday, the family surrounded the Ministry of Social Development, demanding action.

Medical Superintendent of Seti Provincial Hospital, Hemraj Pandey, emphasized that the ministry’s involvement is necessary for the hospital to provide treatment to the child and implement other decisions.

Meanwhile, Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development, Hemraj Regmi, admitted that the file has been lost and stated that it should be prepared again. The family has expressed frustration over the delay and demanded that a new file be compiled using records from Seti Provincial Hospital and that the agreement be implemented immediately.