Fire at Uttar Pradesh Hospital Kills 10 Newborns

A tragic fire at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, resulted in the deaths of 10 newborns, with 16 others in critical condition. The fire, which broke out around 10:45 PM on November 16, 2024, is believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, although investigations are ongoing. Emergency responders managed to rescue 44 babies from the unit, where 54 infants were present at the time. Families of the deceased have been promised financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh each, while a three-tier investigation into the incident has been ordered by the government. In the aftermath, distraught parents have protested outside the hospital, demanding accountability and answers regarding the safety measures in place. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for justice amid a backdrop of grief and chaos at the hospital.