Maternal Mortality in Assam: Examining Trends and Patterns Through Government Initiative and Judicial Interventions

The complex and multifactorial nature of maternal mortality in the State of Assam continues to pose significant challenges in identifying the immediate and underlying causes of preventable maternal deaths. The low social standing of women, discriminatory health treatment, starvation, ignorance, early marriage, unsafe abortions are a few of many contributory factors that leads to the maternal deaths. Due to this complex nature, it is quite difficult to determine the extent and implications of individual and institutional responsibility for maternal deaths. Recognizing the importance of this issue, the present study undertakes a critical examination of recently reported cases of maternal fatalities in the State of Assam. Additionally, various initiatives undertaken by the Central and State Government have been assessed to understand their role in addressing the persistent challenges associated with maternal healthcare in Assam. The study further explores emerging litigation strategies and human rights advocacy efforts in Assam aimed at strengthening the state accountability for preventable maternal deaths.