Archive · 22 Aug 2026
MP Minister Removes Officials After Balaghat Child Deaths
At least 24 children in Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh, reportedly died over several days.
The reported causes included malaria, poor nutrition and missing vaccinations.
Health Minister Rajendra Shukla visited villages where the deaths occurred.
He spoke with families and other sick children.
After hearing complaints, he removed two health officials from their posts.
Villagers said a hospital existed in Machhurda but did not have doctors.
Shukla ordered officials to place an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife at the hospital.
He also said more vaccinations, malaria spraying and nutrition programs were needed.
At least 24 children reportedly died in Balaghat over several days.
Reported causes included malaria, malnutrition and lack of vaccination.
Health Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla removed two senior officials.
The removed officials were Vaccination Officer Dr Paresh Uplap and Malaria Officer Manisha Juneja.
Shukla ordered stronger vaccination, anti-malaria spraying and malnutrition-control efforts.
- Who
- Madhya Pradesh Health Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla, two removed health officials, and affected children and families.
- What
- Two senior health officials were removed after at least 24 children reportedly died in Balaghat.
- When
- The removals and ministerial visit took place on Saturday; the deaths were reported over the preceding few days.
- Where
- Affected villages in Balaghat district, including Machhurda village, Madhya Pradesh.
- Why
- The reported deaths were linked to malaria, malnutrition and lack of vaccination, while officials identified gaps in healthcare and prevention efforts.
- Reported deaths
- At least 24 children
- District
- Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh
- Reported causes
- Malaria, malnutrition and lack of vaccination
- Minister
- Rajendra Shukla, Madhya Pradesh Health Minister and Deputy Chief Minister
- Removed officials
- Vaccination Officer Dr Paresh Uplap and Malaria Officer Manisha Juneja
- Immediate healthcare order
- Deploy an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife at the hospital in Machhurda
- Additional measures
- Increase vaccination coverage, conduct anti-malaria spraying and address malnutrition