Dr. Kantheswar Bordoloi, a senior gynaecologist and senior medical officer at Morigaon Civil Hospital in Assam, northeastern India, is under investigation after performing 21 emergency lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) deliveries within a single shift. The surgeries were conducted between 3:40 pm on September 5 and 1:50 am on September 6, 2025.
The local district administration issued a formal show-cause notice to Dr. Bordoloi, directing him to explain why he should not face disciplinary action. The notice raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of the mothers and newborns involved in such a high number of operations in a short period.
Authorities have requested detailed reports for each case within three days, seeking information on whether proper sterilisation procedures were followed, documentation of any fetal distress cases, details of newborn care in the Sick Neonatal Care Unit (SNCU), and the roles and duties of assisting medical staff.
The notice also pointed out that preoperative and postoperative medical records were inadequately maintained, raising issues regarding infection control and the prevention of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality.
Dr. Bordoloi defended his actions, stating that performing multiple surgeries in a short timeframe is not unusual in India’s busy public hospitals. He noted that uncomplicated C-sections can be completed in about 15 minutes, and that the hospital’s operating theatre has two tables, which facilitates continuous sterilisation without compromising safety.
He further confirmed that 19 of the 21 mothers and newborns were discharged in stable condition, while two remained hospitalized, including one transferred to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital for specialized care.
Dr. Bordoloi suggested that the notice might have been prompted by a complaint against him, and expressed frustration with the investigation despite many years of service.
The case has brought attention to concerns about the rising rates of C-section deliveries in India, their safety implications, and the need for adequate medical record-keeping and oversight in hospital settings.
