SHRC calls for investigation into death of patient after falling from hospital bed

The State Human Rights Commission has ordered the director of medical education to investigate whether there were lapses in care and facilities provided by the Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College Hospital to an elderly patient who died after falling from a hospital bed in one of the general wards.

The SHRC was referring to a case where an 87-year-old patient admitted to Ward 18 of the MCH here fell from the hospital bed on August 28. He died on August 31 during treatment

SHRC chairman Alexander Thomas, after examining the post-mortem report of the deceased, ordered the DME to submit in writing the changes that needed to be made to the patient safety protocols.

He said the investigation conducted by the principal of the medical school under the instructions of the DME must be transparent and effective. He added that the vigilance of medical professionals should not be lacking in this matter.

The DME was asked to submit a report to the Commission within six weeks along with documents including the investigation report and the post-mortem report.

The chairman also directed the medical college police to clarify whether a case under Section 194 of BNSS (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita) has been registered in connection with the incident.

If a case has been registered, the Commission must also be provided with details regarding the progress of the investigation, its current status and the time required to complete it. Copies of the FIR and post-mortem report must be submitted within six weeks.

The representative DME and the representative SHO (Station House Officer) have to appear in the meeting of the commission to be held on November 2 at 10 am at its office at PMG Junction and provide details.

The SHRC issued the order in a case it registered suo motu on the basis of media reports.

Published – 07 Sep 2026 22:55 IST