Newborns rat-bitten

Indore

Two newborn babies at a government hospital in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, were reportedly bitten by rats within the last 48 hours, prompting authorities to launch an investigation on Tuesday. The incidents took place at Maharaja Yashwantrao Chikitsalaya (MYH), one of the largest government hospitals in the state.

Hospital superintendent Dr. Ashok Yadav told that one infant in the ICU suffered rat bites on the fingers, while another had bites on the head and shoulder. Both babies were receiving treatment for congenital deformities, and one had been abandoned in Khargone district before being admitted to MYH. Dr. Yadav confirmed that a special committee has been formed to investigate the incidents.

He added that hospital staff have been directed to maintain round-the-clock vigilance to prevent similar occurrences. Measures including installation of strong iron nets on windows and restrictions on bringing outside food into wards have also been implemented.

State Congress spokesperson Neelabh Shukla condemned the incidents, calling them horrific and a result of administrative negligence. He demanded a judicial inquiry and strict action against those responsible. Shukla said the attacks had caused fear and insecurity among parents, questioning the state government’s ability to ensure the safety of newborns in hospitals, and implying that public safety is at risk if such negligence continues.

The hospital administration said it is taking all possible steps to safeguard infants and prevent any recurrence of such incidents in the future.