Srinagar, July 4: The Jammu and Kashmir Health Department has recommended registration of an FIR and a criminal investigation into the death of a 35-year-old woman during an IVF procedure at Harkaar IVF & Maternity Centre in Srinagar, officials said.
The action follows a preliminary inquiry that flagged serious irregularities at the private fertility centre, including allegations that it was operating without mandatory registration and approvals from competent health authorities. The woman, a resident of North Kashmir’s Baramulla district, died during a procedure earlier this week, triggering protests and allegations of medical negligence by her family.
According to officials and inquiry findings, the patient’s condition deteriorated soon after she was administered anaesthesia during the procedure. She was later shifted to a super-speciality hospital in Srinagar, where doctors reportedly declared her dead on arrival or before admission, according to the family’s version.
The Health Department’s inspection has also revealed alleged violations of medical norms, including operation from an under-construction facility and absence of proper regulatory clearance. Authorities have since sealed the centre and initiated further scrutiny of its records.
In a parallel development, officials have also cited additional irregularities, including the presence of unauthorised medical equipment at the facility, strengthening the case for criminal proceedings.
The Chief Medical Officer, Srinagar, has forwarded recommendations for filing an FIR against those responsible under relevant provisions of law. A detailed probe is expected to examine the exact circumstances leading to the woman’s death, including possible medical negligence.
The family has demanded strict action against the doctors and management of the centre, alleging that excessive anaesthesia and mismanagement led to the fatal outcome. They have also called for accountability at multiple levels and a transparent investigation into the incident.
Authorities said the inquiry is ongoing and further action will be taken based on its final findings.
