The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report indicating at least 60 newborn deaths occurred during the first three weeks of August 2026 at Malda Medical College and Hospital in West Bengal. The incident reportedly included ten newborn deaths on a single day, with 44 of the 60 deceased infants having been referred from other medical facilities after their health condition deteriorated.
The Commission observed that these allegations, if verified, raise serious issues of human rights violations. In response, the NHRC has issued a formal notice to the West Bengal Chief Secretary, demanding a detailed report on the matter within two weeks. The media report that triggered this action was published on August 27, 2026.