An 18-month-old boy, Devansh Shaurya, dies in Kerala after anaesthesia is given for a lip injury, according to police and reports. The child suffers a cut on his lip after falling while playing outside his home on July 5. He is first taken to a primary health centre in Mathamangalam, where he receives first aid, before being brought to Baby Memorial Hospital in Payyannur for stitches under anaesthesia.
After the procedure, the boy reportedly loses consciousness and is later shifted to Baby Memorial Hospital in Kannur for further critical care. He dies at around 9 pm on Friday.
The child’s family alleges medical negligence and the police register a case against doctor Anjali Poduval. She is charged under Section 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which relates to acts endangering life or personal safety. The hospital denies negligence, stating the boy experiences an unexpected cardiac arrest immediately after anaesthesia, and that he is placed on ventilator support before being moved for advanced care. The hospital says accepted treatment protocols were followed and that complications can occur even with appropriate dosage and medical care.
