Sambalpur: The Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) in Burla is under scrutiny after the death of another pregnant woman on Wednesday, bringing the total number of maternal deaths at the facility to six in just one week.

The latest fatality has sparked widespread concern among families and local activists, many of whom are questioning potential side effects of medications or lapses in treatment protocols at this prominent government medical institution serving western Odisha.

VIMSAR Director Dr. Lalmohan Nayak has categorically denied allegations of adverse drug reactions or improper treatment. He attributed several of the deaths to complications related to high blood pressure and sickle cell disease, conditions that are known to pose significant risks during pregnancy.

However, he acknowledged that the exact cause of Wednesday’s death is still under investigation. “Many of these are referral cases,” he noted.

The fatalities have raised alarms about the quality of maternal healthcare services at VIMSAR, a crucial tertiary care center in the region. While officials stress the presence of underlying medical complications, grieving families and community members are calling for a comprehensive and transparent investigation to eliminate any potential systemic issues or negligence.

Further details are pending as authorities continue to look into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.