Bhopal: Dr Rashmi Verma, an assistant professor at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhopal, passed away on January 5, 2026, after being on ventilator support for 24 days following an alleged anaesthesia overdose.

According to officials, Dr Verma reportedly injected herself with a high dose of anaesthesia drug while at the hospital. She was immediately admitted to AIIMS Bhopal’s Emergency and Trauma Department and placed on ventilator support from December 11, 2025. Despite intensive medical intervention and round-the-clock monitoring, she suffered severe brain damage (global hypoxia) due to a lack of oxygen supply and could not be saved.

“Despite all efforts, she breathed her last on Monday,” an AIIMS official confirmed. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) had initially restored her heartbeat, but the extensive brain damage proved fatal.

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Background and Circumstances

Dr Verma, who completed her education in Gorakhpur and Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, was reportedly under significant administrative pressure at AIIMS Bhopal. Sources told PTI that she had received repeated notices from the administration in recent months.

Following the incident, the Union Health Ministry intervened. The head of the Emergency Department was removed from his post, and AIIMS Bhopal management set up a fact-finding committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged overdose. The police are also probing the matter separately.

The Madhya Pradesh police have recorded statements from Dr Verma’s immediate family members, including her husband, mother, and brother. The deceased was a resident of Adharshila Colony, Awadhpuri, Bhopal.

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Health Advisory and Support

The incident has sparked discussions on mental health and suicide prevention in high-pressure medical environments. Health experts emphasize that while suicides can be tragic, they are preventable with timely intervention.

For those in distress or needing support, the following suicide prevention helplines in India are available:

• Sumaitri (Delhi-based): 011-23389090
• Sneha Foundation (Chennai-based): 044-24640050

Experts advise colleagues, family, and friends to remain alert to signs of stress, depression, or anxiety among healthcare workers, particularly those facing administrative or professional pressures.

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This case underscores the importance of mental health support for medical professionals, particularly during challenging work environments, and has prompted calls for institutional mechanisms to reduce stress, monitor well-being, and provide counselling services.