'Saved other babies...couldn't help own': Jhansi hospital fire victims' parents
What's the story
A massive fire at Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Uttar Pradesh's Jhansi killed 10 newborns on Friday night.
The blaze, suspected to have been caused by a short circuit, broke out in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) around 10:45pm.
Currently, 16 children are fighting for their lives after the tragic incident.
Brave rescues
Parents' heroic efforts amid tragedy
According to media reports, Kuldeep, a resident of Mahoba in Uttar Pradesh, saved three kids from the fire but is still unsure about his own newborn son.
His son was brought for a routine check-up just 10 days after birth.
Kuldeep suffered burns on his hand while rescuing and is now anxiously waiting for news about his child even as his wife is inconsolable, News18 reported.
Investigation launched
Overcrowding concerns and government response
Kripal Singh Rajput, another parent at the hospital, saved 25 newborns, despite many being severely injured.
He said there were six children on a single bed, raising concerns of overcrowding as 54 newborns were present at the time.
Reacting to the tragedy, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered a high-level probe and announced financial aid for affected families.
Twitter Post
Locals helped in rescue
🚨HEART WRENCHING ⚠️
— Amitabh Chaudhary (@MithilaWaala) November 16, 2024
10 newborns lost their life in a devastating fire that occurred at the neonatal intensive care unit of a Jhansi Medical College #UttarPradesh, 40 newborns rescued.
Those involved must be jailed and given strictest punishment. It’s high time that hospitals… pic.twitter.com/96AMwIDOTI
National response
PM Modi expresses sorrow, assures relief efforts
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his sorrow over the tragedy.
He said: "Heartbreaking! The fire accident at Jhansi Medical College in Uttar Pradesh is heart-wrenching. My deepest condolences to those who have lost their innocent children in this."
He assured local administration efforts are underway for relief and rescue operations.