Preneeta Sharma
Arki/Shimla May 21
A major controversy has erupted in Himachal Pradesh after a 44 year old woman allegedly died following a stone surgery at Civil Hospital Arki in Solan district. However, the family has also accused the hospital of referring her to IGMC Shimla despite being dead.
The issue intensified further after Himachal Pradesh Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil made a shocking remark during media interaction, saying, “Paani peena nahi, death toh hogi hi.”
The insensitive comment has triggered widespread anger, with opposition leaders and locals questioning the government’s response to the tragic incident.
According to the family, Seema Devi (44), wife of Hans Raj and resident of Chunadi village under Bhumti Panchayat, was admitted to Civil Hospital Arki for a stone operation. After surgery, her condition reportedly deteriorated, but relatives allege doctors and hospital authorities failed to provide clear information about her actual health status.
Family alleges woman was referred after death
The deceased woman’s husband Hans Raj, brother Nitya Nand and son-in-law Dinesh Sharma claimed that hospital staff informed them Seema’s condition was serious and she was being referred to IGMC Shimla for advanced treatment.
However, the family alleged that upon reaching IGMC, doctors informed them the woman had died nearly two hours earlier. The revelation left the family furious, who accused the hospital administration of gross negligence and demanded a fair and transparent probe into the entire treatment process.
Minister’s statement draws criticism
Amid rising outrage over the woman’s death, Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil came under fire for his controversial statement:
“Paani peena nahi, death toh hogi hi.”
The remark, seen by many as insensitive towards the deceased woman and her grieving family, has further fueled public anger. Locals and political opponents are now demanding accountability from the government and strict action if negligence is found in the case.
