The Malda Medical College and Hospital (MMCH) has reported 60 infant deaths in August till Monday, with 10 newborns dying on a single day on August 24. The deaths have prompted the health officials to launch inspections across various hospitals and nursing homes in the district. A report has also been sought from the MMCH on the infant mortality cases.The MMCH authorities claim that among the 10 newborns who died, eight were born in other hospitals or nursing homes in the district and were brought to the government medical college in a critical condition. Two other babies who died were born at the MMCH.“Of the 10 children, only two were born at Malda Medical College. The rest were referred here from outside in a critical condition,” MMCH superintendent Prosenjit Bar told the media.Similarly, of the total 60 infant deaths reported at the hospital till Monday, 44 were born in other hospitals and nursing homes and later referred to the MMCH due to various health complications, as per sources in the state health department. The remaining 16 infants died after being delivered at the medical college itself.Hospital officials stated that some infants suffered from respiratory distress, while others were affected by jaundice or heart problems.An investigation into the infant deaths has been launched, and the health department has asked for a comprehensive report from the MMCH, which has submitted a preliminary report to the administration.On Wednesday, state Health Minister Shardwat Mukhopadhyay said, “The infant mortality rate in Malda has increased. We have asked for a detailed report to understand why and how this happened.”Story continues below this adOfficials raid private hospitalsHealth officials describe the situation as alarming, raising serious questions about childbirth conditions in private hospitals and nursing homes.Inspections are also underway in private facilities across the district, with raids already conducted at 16 nursing homes and hospitals. State health department officials confirmed that preliminary discussions have taken place among the MMCH, the district health department, the district administration, and the police.A meeting is scheduled at the District Magistrate’s office on Thursday. An official said, “The infant mortality rate in a single district over one week has impacted the state’s overall statistics and is considered worrying even on the national level. The investigation is ongoing.”Meanwhile, Union Minister of State for Education, Sukanta Majumdar, on Thursday blamed the previous Trinamool Congress government for “poor infrastructure” at the MMCH.Story continues below this ad“There are numerous problems across various sectors, including health and education. You cannot simply flip a switch today and expect everything to change by tomorrow. Even if the government changes, the system cannot be overhauled instantly; it requires time. We need to rebuild this system from scratch. We are aware of the poor infrastructure at Malda Medical College and Hospital but rectifying this takes time. Where do we find doctors? You cannot simply pick up doctors and transfer them here,” Majumdar said.Sweety Kumari is a seasoned journalist reporting from West Bengal for The Indian Express. With over a decade of experience in the media industry and eight years specifically with The Indian Express, she demonstrates considerable Expertise and Authority across a diverse range of critical beats. Experience & Authority Current Role: Journalist, The Indian Express, reporting from West Bengal. Extensive Tenure: Over 10 years of experience in the media industry, with a long association (8 years) with The Indian Express, contributing to a high level of Trustworthiness. Diverse Coverage: Covers crucial beats including Crime, Defence, Health, and Politics, alongside writing on trending topics. Investigative Focus: Possesses a keen eye for investigative and human-interest stories, demonstrating depth and skill in impactful journalism. Beat Versatility: Has honed her craft across diverse beats, including aviation and reporting on various incidents, ensuring well-rounded and comprehensive reportage. Career Start: Began her journalistic journey as an Entertainment and lifestyle journalist with a news portal in Kolkata, providing a foundational understanding of media landscape and audience engagement. Education Advanced Education: Holds a PG in Mass Communication from Jadavpur University, equipping her with advanced media theory and skills. Undergraduate Education: Holds an Honours degree in Journalism from Jaipuria College. Multilingual Skill: Her fluency in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Maithili enhances her reach and capability to connect with diverse sources and communities in the region, adding a layer of accessibility and authenticity to her reporting. Regional Roots: Originally from Bihar, she was brought up and educated in Kolkata (Kendriya Vidyalaya Salt Lake), giving her a deep, personal understanding of the cultural and political nuances of her reporting region. Sweety Kumari's combination of significant experience, specialization in key beats like Crime and Politics, and strong academic background makes her a trusted and authoritative contributor to The Indian Express. ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on InstagramTags:MaldaWest Bengal