A senior gynaecologist at Morigaon Civil Hospital in Assam has been issued a showcause notice after allegedly performing 21 caesarean deliveries within 10 hours, raising concerns over patient safety and sterilisation protocols, officials said on Monday.
Dr. Kantheswar Bordoloi, medical and health officer, received the notice from the Additional District Commissioner (Health), Morigaon, regarding the lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) procedures conducted between 3:40 p.m. on September 5 and 1:50 a.m. on September 6. The administration has directed him to submit comprehensive reports for each case, detailing preoperative preparation, adherence to sterilisation procedures, and postoperative documentation.
The letter highlighted that pre- and post-surgical notes were inadequately maintained, warning that such lapses could undermine infection control and increase risks of maternal and infant morbidity or mortality. Authorities also sought clarification on cases involving fetal distress and justification for emergency interventions.
Responding to the notice, Dr. Bordoloi defended his actions, stating that he acted strictly on medical indications. “There is nothing unusual in what I have done. Other doctors also perform many surgeries at such a pace,” he told reporters. He added that he could complete certain C-sections in as little as 15 minutes depending on complications, and that sterilisation was managed alternately on two operating tables.
The doctor noted that of the 21 cases, 19 mothers and their newborns had already been discharged in stable condition, while two patients remained hospitalised, including one referred to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital. He further alleged that complaints against him might be part of a “conspiracy” and suggested he may consider resigning from government service if such pressures continued.
The incident has sparked debate in medical and administrative circles about workload, documentation, and quality control in public hospitals. Health authorities have said the inquiry is necessary to ensure adherence to safety standards while acknowledging the heavy patient load in district facilities.
