Rourkela, Mar 11: In a disturbing incident at Rourkela Ispat General Hospital (IGH) late Monday night, an 18-year-old unmarried girl allegedly fled the hospital after giving birth to a premature fetus in the toilet. The fetus, estimated to be around five to six months old, was later recovered by police from the hospital restroom.

According to reports, the young woman, a resident of the Brahmanitarang police station area, was brought to IGH around 11 pm in an ambulance after complaining of severe abdominal pain. Upon arrival, she obtained a registration ticket at the outpatient department and was then directed to the casualty ward for further examination. Doctors advised several medical tests, during which the young woman requested to use the toilet. Considering her fragile condition, a nursing staff member accompanied her to the restroom.

While inside, the premature fetus reportedly slipped into the toilet pan during urination. The girl soon began bleeding and asked the nursing staff for gauze to manage it. After tying the cloth, she reportedly told the staff she was feeling better and left the hospital premises.

Police have registered a case and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the young woman’s sudden departure from the hospital.