Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Mar 21: A 40-year-old man died in a tragic accident after getting trapped inside a patient lift at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata, with the incident occurring in front of his wife and three-year-old son.

The deceased, identified as Arup Banerjee, was stuck between the lift doors while attempting to force them open after the family remained trapped inside the malfunctioning lift for nearly an hour.

His wife Sonali and son Ayush sustained minor injuries, while Arup suffered severe crush injuries after being caught between two doors.

According to Joint Commissioner of Police Rupesh Kumar, the post-mortem revealed that the death was caused due to severe chest compression, leading to rupture of vital organs including the heart, lungs, and liver. Multiple fractures were also reported on his limbs and ribs.

Following the incident, police arrested two security guards and three lift operators who were on duty at the trauma care building where the accident occurred.

Family members alleged negligence, claiming that the lift was malfunctioning and moving uncontrollably between floors without stopping. The victim’s sister said they could hear his cries for help from inside, but despite alerting hospital staff, no timely assistance was provided.

The family had brought their three-year-old son to the hospital after he sustained injuries while playing at their residence in Dum Dum. Doctors had diagnosed a fracture and advised surgery.

The incident has raised serious concerns over safety standards and maintenance at the government-run hospital, with authorities initiating further investigation into the lapse.