SHRC calls for enquiry into patient’s death following fall from hospital bed - The HinduPublished - September 07, 2026 10:55 pm ISTThe State Human Rights Commission has directed the Director of Medical Education to examine whether there were lapses in the care and facilities provided by the Thiruvananthapuram Government Medical College Hospital hospital to an elderly patient, who had died after he fell off the hospital bed in one of the general wards.SHRC was referring to the case wherein an 87-year-old patient admitted to ward 18 of the MCH here had fallen off the hospital cot on August 28. He had died on August 31 while under treatmentThe chairperson of SHRC Alexander Thomas, after examining the post-mortem report of the deceased, directed the DME to submit in writing the changes that needed to be made to the patient safety protocols.He said that enquiry being conducted by the Medical College Principal, as directed by the DME, must be transparent and effective. He added that there should be no lack of vigilance on the part of medical experts in this matter.The DME has been asked to submit a report to the Commission within six weeks, along with documents including the enquiry report and the post-mortem report.The chairperson also directed the Medical College police to clarify whether a case has been registered in connection with the incident under Section 194 of the BNSS (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita).If a case has been registered, details regarding the progress of the investigation, its current status, and the time required to complete it must also be furnished to the Commission. Copies of the FIR and the post-mortem report must be produced within six weeks.The Deputy DME and a representative of the SHO (Station House Officer) must appear at the Commission’s sitting to be held at 10 a.m. on November 2, at its office at PMG Junction and provide the details.SHRC gave the order in a case it registered suo motu on the basis of media reports.Published - September 07, 2026 10:55 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }