The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report about maternal deaths
53 expecting mothers died during pre and post-delivery in Sidhi district of Madhya Pradesh
Time period: April 2025 to March 2026 (one year)
Primary causes: lack of awareness and medical facilities
Average age of deceased mothers: 26 years
Most victims were first or second-time mothers
Media report was carried on 29th May 2026
Sidhi district has consistently ranked among the bottom three districts in the Community Maternal Health League grading conducted by the State Health Department
Lack of basic infrastructure including doctors and technical experts at Community Health Centres, Primary Health Centres, and District Hospital
Patients are referred to higher medical facilities in Rewa District, risking life in transit
Several villages lack proper road connectivity in Sidhi District
Situation worsens during monsoon season
Pregnant women have to be carried on cots for 2-3 kilometers before reaching an ambulance
NHRC has issued notice to the Chief Secretary, Government of Madhya Pradesh
