In Matla village, three-year-old Bamita Markam died after days of high fever, convulsions, and vomiting blood. Her mother, Koushila, recalled that the child had been taken to a doctor who prescribed an ointment, and later a faith healer provided syrups and tablets. Nothing worked. "She cried a lot," Koushila said. "She convulsed all night." The family buried her in the jungle after midday.
Bamita's death was one of at least 32 child deaths recorded since May in the region, according to officials. The victims ranged from babies just three or four months old to an 18-year-old. Most were Baiga, one of India's 75 "particularly vulnerable tribal groups" (PVTGs), communities that face extreme marginalisation and poor access to healthcare.
The deaths highlight the systemic challenges in reaching remote tribal populations with basic medical services. The Baiga are a forest-dwelling community that has historically faced displacement, food insecurity, and limited government support. Health infrastructure in the region is sparse, with many families relying on local doctors and faith healers when illness strikes.
The case has prompted local authorities to record the deaths, but questions remain about the availability of timely medical intervention and the underlying causes of the outbreak, which could include malnutrition, infections, or lack of clean water.