SERAIKELA-KHARSAWAN – In a harrowing incident that has highlighted the dire state of rural healthcare, a 29-year-old Adivasi health worker and her newborn son died during delivery at a Community Health Centre (CHC) in Rajnagar while doctors allegedly performed the procedure under the flashlights of mobile phones. The tragedy, which occurred on the night of April 30, 2026, has led to the immediate suspension of a senior medical officer and a high-level administrative probe.
The Incident: Delivery in the Dark
The victim, Binita Banra, an Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) and resident of Hathisiring village, was admitted to the Rajnagar CHC for the birth of her third child. According to her husband, Durgacharan Banra, a sudden power outage caused by a thunderstorm plunged the facility into darkness.
Despite the CHC being equipped with multiple backup systems—including an inverter, solar power, and a diesel generator—none were reportedly functional at the time of the emergency. Consequently, the medical staff proceeded with the delivery using mobile phone torches for illumination. Both Binita and her newborn son passed away shortly after the procedure.
Allegations of Negligence and Response
The family has alleged gross negligence, claiming that the lack of proper lighting and delayed medical attention led to the deaths. Preliminary medical findings suggest the mother died of postpartum haemorrhage (excessive bleeding), while the infant, who was reportedly born stillborn, was found with his umbilical cord wrapped around his neck.
The Jharkhand Health Department has taken swift action, suspending Dr. Shivalal Kunkal, the in-charge medical officer, for serious negligence. Deputy Commissioner Nitish Kumar Singh has constituted a three-member inquiry committee led by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Abhinav Prakash to investigate the infrastructure failure and medical lapses.
Political and Social Backlash
The incident has triggered widespread political criticism. BJP state president Aditya Sahu slammed the state government, describing the event as evidence of a “collapsed healthcare system”. Critics have questioned why essential emergency systems were not maintained despite annual government funds provided under the Chief Minister’s Hospital Maintenance Scheme.
