West Bengal CM's Convoy Stopped as Family Alleges Eyes Removed from Deceased at Barasat Hospital
Family halts West Bengal CM over missing corneas of deceased patient.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s convoy was forcibly halted on Jessore Road in Barasat on Tuesday by anguished relatives of 34-year-old Pritam Ghosh, who alleged that both his eyes were removed from his body after death at Barasat Government Medical College and Hospital. The protesters, demanding immediate justice, blocked the road as the Chief Minister was returning from a public rally in Bangaon, North 24 Parganas.
The family claimed that Pritam Ghosh, declared dead at the hospital, was found with his corneas missing when the body was handed over for last rites. Enraged relatives surrounded Banerjee’s vehicle, refusing to let the convoy proceed until their grievance was addressed. Senior police officers rushed to the spot to manage the volatile situation and ensure the Chief Minister’s security.
Stepping out of her vehicle, Mamata Banerjee met the grieving family directly and assured them of a thorough and impartial investigation. She announced that CCTV footage from the hospital and morgue would be scrutinised, and strict action would be taken against anyone found guilty. “I have ordered a complete enquiry. The guilty will not be spared,” she declared.
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In a swift compensatory measure, the Chief Minister sanctioned a government job for one eligible family member from her discretionary quota and announced financial assistance for the bereaved household. She instructed the district administration and health department to submit a detailed report at the earliest and ensure such incidents are prevented through stricter protocols.
The incident has triggered widespread outrage and renewed scrutiny of organ retrieval practices in state-run hospitals. Police have registered a case and launched a formal investigation, while authorities confirmed that senior hospital officials have been directed to cooperate fully as the probe into the alleged illegal removal of corneas gathers pace.
