Assam Student’s Roommate Alleges Repeated Painkillers Before Her Condition Worsened
Roommate alleges repeated painkillers were given before her death.
A college student who died during treatment at a hospital in Guwahati has faced allegations over the medical care she received before her death, with her roommate claiming that the institute doctor repeatedly prescribed painkillers. Shruti Upadhyay, a student of the Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE) in Sonapur, had reportedly been suffering from severe back pain for nearly four years. The exact cause of her death remains under investigation.
Upadhyay's roommate, Shweta, alleged that the student was repeatedly given painkillers by the institute doctor despite her condition continuing to worsen. She claimed that the medication did not provide relief and that Upadhyay was eventually advised to undergo medical tests at a hospital in Sonapur. Students have since protested, demanding a thorough investigation into the treatment provided to Upadhyay, the doctors involved and the medical facilities available at the institute.
Shweta called for accountability if any wrongdoing is established in the case. She alleged that the repeated prescription of painkillers failed to address the underlying health problem and that her friend's condition deteriorated over time. The allegations have emerged as students seek clarity over the circumstances preceding Upadhyay's hospitalisation and death, while the authorities have not yet established a definitive cause.
Also Read: Nitin Nabin Leads BJP’s Gen Z Outreach And Cadre Mobilisation In Uttarakhand
Upadhyay's mother has also questioned how the institute communicated with the family during her daughter's final hours. She alleged that she did not receive a call from the institute explaining the seriousness of Upadhyay's condition and instead received a call directly from her daughter from the hospital. The mother said she immediately travelled to the hospital and alleged that when she reached there, she was shocked by her daughter's condition.
The institute's vice chancellor met protesting students and also spoke with Upadhyay's parents on Wednesday night. LNIPE Dean Shankarjyoti Basumatary said the institute had informed the police about the circumstances surrounding the death and that a postmortem examination had been conducted. He added that the institute would follow the required protocol as the matter is examined.
Meanwhile, LNIPE Chief Warden Merlin Gogoi has been suspended following the incident. The institute has not yet issued a statement addressing the allegations made by Upadhyay's family regarding her treatment and communication during her hospitalisation. The investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding her illness, treatment and death.
Also Read: Xi Jinping To Attend BRICS Summit In India On September 12-13
