In May, a 22-year-old stepped into an elevator in the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) in Thiruvananthapuram without knowing it was out of order, which then fell down three floors, causing grievous injuries to her head and spine. The woman, Nadeera, succumbed to her injuries on Thursday (June 18) after being under treatment at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College hospital for over a month. According to the police, Nadeera, who hails from Kundayam in Kollam’s Pathanapuram, was at the hospital with her mother who was under treatment in RCC. The incident happened on May 15, police said.
“The lift was allegedly under repair, and as she got into the lift, it fell from the third floor to the ground. She sustained grievous injuries and was under treatment. Last month itself, a case was registered for negligence against the lift operator. More sections will be added after we get the medical report,” an official of the Medical College police station in Thiruvananthapuram said.
Though the lift was allegedly under repair, there was no warning sign indicating the same nearby. Officials of the Regional Cancer Centre told TNM that five hospital staff were suspended following the incident in May. “We are conducting a probe and more details can only be given once that is over,” a hospital official said.
Kerala State Women's Commission member Shahida Kamal on Thursday sought a report from the RCC, and demanded they pay compensation to Nadeera’s family. The State Human Rights Commission has also sought a report from the RCC. Nadeera leaves behind a one-and-half year old daughter and a husband. Her funeral was held on Thursday in her hometown in Kollam. According to reports, Health Minister Veena George who visited the RCC, has announced that the state government will help the family financially. Meanwhile, the Women’s Commission has also directed the RCC to provide the necessary compensation for the family.
(With inputs from IANS)
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