NMMC suspends doctor after pregnant woman dies at Airoli hospital
The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) on Thursday suspended gynecologist Dr. Bhavana Pagare following the death of an eight-month pregnant woman during treatment at Rajmata Jijau Hospital in Airoli, Navi Mumbai. NMMC Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde issued the suspension order after a prima facie case of negligence was observed against the doctor.
The deceased, identified as Sonam Dongre, was admitted to the civic hospital for treatment. Her death triggered widespread concern across social media and television channels, which the civic body noted had adversely affected the image of the NMMC.
According to civic officials, Dongre was administered Dexamethasone, a steroid injection manufactured by Health Biotech Ltd, as part of a treatment protocol for women at risk of preterm delivery. The injection is routinely used to accelerate the development of a baby's lungs before birth and is generally given in two doses.
Officials confirmed that the first dose was administered on June 30. After the second dose was given, Dongre's oxygen saturation levels began to fall. She was immediately shifted to the intensive care unit for intensive medical treatment but died despite resuscitative efforts.
Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde stated that the civic body has requested the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to examine the entire batch of the injection used at the hospital to rule out every possible factor. The vials used were from batches with expiry dates of January 2027 and March 2027.
Shinde explained that the suspension is a procedural step pending the inquiry. A committee has been constituted to investigate the circumstances leading to the patient's death, and Dr. Pagare will remain suspended until the committee submits its report.
Under the suspension order, Dr. Pagare will receive a subsistence allowance as per the Maharashtra Civil Services Rules. She has also been barred from accepting private employment or engaging in any business while under suspension. The inquiry committee is expected to examine the treatment administered, the sequence of medical events, and other relevant aspects.
