Malda hospital probes 60 newborn deaths in August

The West Bengal health department has launched an investigation into Malda Medical College and Hospital after 10 newborns died in a single day on August 12, 2026. The deaths are part of a larger pattern, with the hospital recording 60 newborn fatalities during the first three weeks of August. Officials are now examining the medical records of the infants and the circumstances of their referrals from other facilities.

Hospital authorities have stated that most of the infants who died were brought to Malda in critical condition from other government hospitals and private nursing homes. Of the 10 deaths on August 12, eight had been referred from outside facilities, while only two were born at Malda Medical College. The hospital's Medical Superintendent, Dr. Prasenjit Bar, said the infants suffered from serious medical complications, including congenital heart disease, severe respiratory distress, and other critical conditions.

The state health department's review extends beyond Malda Medical College. Officials are scrutinizing private hospitals, nursing homes, and block-level facilities from which many of the babies were referred. District health officials have already inspected at...