Clinic sealed, FIR lodged; district authorities vow crackdown on illegal medical setups
Rohtas (Bihar): In a shocking incident that has triggered widespread outrage across the Karakat region, a 26-year-old pregnant woman died during a botched Caesarean section allegedly performed by an unqualified individual under the remote guidance of a doctor via video call. The surgery took place at a private clinic in Godari village, which has now been sealed by authorities.
The woman, a resident of Jayshree village, went into labour late on Sunday, July 6. Her family initially took her to the Karakat Community Health Centre (CHC), where doctors deemed the case complicated and referred her to Sadar Hospital, Sasaram, for advanced care.
ASHA Worker Redirects Family to Private Clinic
However, an ASHA (Accredited Social Health Activist) worker allegedly persuaded the family to opt for Janta Nursing Home, a small private clinic, claiming it would offer better and quicker treatment.
At the clinic, the family witnessed a disturbing scene — the attending individual, reportedly a quack without formal medical training, was performing the surgery while taking step-by-step instructions over a video call from another doctor not present on-site, reports NewsClick.
Eyewitnesses claimed that even the doctor on the video call expressed concern over the worsening condition of the patient and recommended immediate referral. However, before any action could be taken, the woman died on the operating table. Her newborn survived and is reportedly in stable condition.
Authorities Seal Clinic, Launch Investigation
Following the incident, a police team led by Karakat Station In-Charge Bhagirath Kumar reached the site, sealed the clinic, and sent the woman’s body for post-mortem in Sasaram. An FIR has been registered, and an investigation is currently underway.
Rising Threat of Illegal Clinics in the Region
Speaking to News18, Rohtas Civil Surgeon Dr. Maniraj Ranjan acknowledged the alarming increase in unauthorised private clinics in the district. “Despite shutting down several fake hospitals in the past, they continue to resurface under new names,” he said.
He announced that a joint task force comprising police, zonal officers, and block medical officers will soon be formed to launch an extensive crackdown on such illegal healthcare establishments.
Context: A Pattern of Medical Negligence
This tragedy comes in the wake of similar disturbing cases, including a recent incident where a nurse performed a C-section on five-month-old IVF twins under the guidance of a doctor, leading to legal action against the involved medical staff and facility.
As public outrage grows and authorities promise stern action, the case has once again raised serious concerns over unauthorised medical practices and the vulnerability of patients in rural areas.
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