In a story that has captivated Kolhapur and gone viral across media, a 65-year-old grandfather from Kasba-Bawda has seemingly “returned from the dead.” While many are calling it a miracle, medical experts suggest that this incident highlights glaring medical negligence.
The dramatic turn of events unfolded with Pandurang Ulpe, who was presumed dead on December 16, 2024. His family had even begun funeral preparations when an unexpected twist on the way home changed everything.
Declared Dead, but Was He?
Pandurang Ulpe was taken to a private hospital in Gangavesh, Kolhapur, on the evening of December 16, after complaining of uneasiness. Doctors diagnosed him with a heart attack, and his condition reportedly deteriorated rapidly.
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By midnight, doctors informed the family that Ulpe’s life was fading. According to his relatives, he showed no movement, and his heart had stopped beating. The hospital staff advised the family to take him home, allegedly declaring him dead without issuing a death certificate.
The family complied and transported Ulpe in an ambulance, all while preparing for his final rites.
The family immediately redirected the ambulance to D.Y. Patil Hospital in Kasba-Bawda. Doctors there worked tirelessly, and by 3 PM on December 17, Ulpe regained consciousness. After undergoing treatment, he fully recovered and returned home on December 30, 2024, to a joyous welcome.
Negligence in Question
The family’s refusal to name the first hospital or doctor involved has fueled speculation. However, the district civil surgeon, Dr. Deshmukh, confirmed that negligence likely played a role.
It is against medical protocol to declare a patient dead immediately after observing a flatline on an ECG. Standard procedure requires continuous monitoring and emergency measures for at least an hour before declaring death
Dr Supriya Deshmukh , Civil Surgeon
Dr. Deshmukh also pointed out a second major oversight: “No postmortem was conducted, nor was a death certificate issued. Sending the patient home in such a condition was a grave mistake.”
How Did Ulpe Survive?
Medical experts suggest that the jolt from the speed breaker acted as a physical stimulus, akin to a cardiac massage, potentially restarting his heart.
“In cases of cardiac arrest, the heart can sometimes restart with external shocks or physical interventions. However, proper emergency care is critical, and this case underscores the importance of adhering to medical protocols,” Dr. Deshmukh added.
Viral Miracle or Cautionary Tale?
The story of Pandurang Ulpe has sparked both amazement and concern. While his family celebrates what they call a miracle, the incident raises serious questions about medical negligence and adherence to life-saving protocols.
Had the ambulance not hit the speed breaker, the outcome could have been tragic. For now, this case serves as both a miraculous recovery and a stark reminder of the need for accountability in medical practices.
