Gorakhpur tragedy: SC refuses to take suo motu cognisance; Congress demands SC-monitored probe

The Supreme Court on Monday refused to take suo-motu cognisance of the death of children at a Gorakhpur hospital in Uttar Pradesh.

The top court asked the lawyer, who mentioned the plea, to move Allahabad High Court with his grievance. 

Over 60 children have reportedly died at BRD Medical College Hospital since August 7, many for want of oxygen whose supply was disrupted after bills were not paid to the vendor.

However, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath rejected reports that the children died due to shortage of oxygen. He asserted that no one will be allowed to go scot-free and stern action will be taken against those responsible. 

"Nobody can be more sensitive towards those children than me. Prime Minister is very concerned and he assured complete assistance from the Centre. Prime Minister has also sent Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda to take cognizance of the situation," said Adityanath.

The incident sparked a national outcry, with opposition parties demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

The Union government announced the setting up of a regional medical centre at a cost of Rs 85 crore in Gorakhpur for research into children's diseases.

Meanwhile, the Congress demanded a Supreme Court-monitored probe into the death, alleging that the Yogi Adityanath government, through 'operation cover-up', was attempting to bury the truth.

Congress leader Tom Vadakkan said it is a complete administrative failure at their end and if he (Kulaste) thinks that there is a conspiracy then a Supreme Court monitored enquiry would be ideal.