Woman delivers baby on road outside Raebareli women's hospital; family alleges Rs 10,000 demand

A pregnant woman in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, had to give birth on the road outside a government women's hospital. Her family alleges that hospital staff had demanded Rs 10,000 for the delivery. According to the family, the woman was not admitted because they did not have the money, and the delivery finally took place outside the hospital door.

Relatives said that when the woman went into labour, the family took her to the district women's hospital. They said doctors spoke about money there instead of examining her first. The family is very poor and could not afford Rs 10,000. According to the relatives, they folded their hands before the staff, but were not heard.

The family also said the woman was repeatedly sent out and the hospital kept delaying her admission. When the pain became unbearable, she gave birth outside the hospital gate. The delivery took place on the road. Women from the neighbourhood rushed over and helped her.

The incident has caused a stir. The hospital administration, however, has termed all the allegations false. It said no one is charged any money at the hospital and all treatment is free. Nirmala Sahu, the hospital's superintendent, responded to the allegations.

Ms Sahu said an inquiry into the entire matter has been started. She said strict action would be taken against any employee found guilty. The demand for Rs 10,000 is, for now, only an allegation by the family and has not been proved.

The woman and her newborn have since been admitted to the hospital. Both are reported to be stable for now.