Outrage erupts in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum as family claims lack of doctors and emergency care led to tragic death
Tragedy at Manoharpur Community Health Centre
A case of alleged medical negligence has surfaced at the Manoharpur Community Health Centre (CHC) in Chaibasa, located in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district, after a 31-year-old woman died just hours after delivering a stillborn baby.
According to reports, the woman was admitted to the hospital around 9 am on Saturday for delivery. She gave birth to a stillborn baby girl at approximately 4:22 pm. Soon after, her condition deteriorated, and she reportedly went into deep shock.
Family Alleges Lack of Doctors and Emergency Care
The grieving family has accused the hospital administration of failing to provide timely medical attention. They alleged that the CHC lacked a qualified gynaecologist and proper emergency facilities, which proved fatal.
Despite her critical condition, the woman was neither stabilised adequately nor referred to a higher medical facility in time. She passed away around 7 pm, just a few hours after delivery.
The incident has drawn strong reactions, especially as the couple had reportedly been trying to conceive for nearly a decade.
Protest Erupts Over Healthcare Shortcomings
Following the woman’s death, local residents and family members staged a protest at the hospital premises. Protesters highlighted severe staff shortages, claiming that neither surgeons nor gynaecologists are posted at the facility.
They further pointed out that while the hospital has an ultrasound machine, it remains non-functional due to the absence of a trained technician. Emergency healthcare services were described as nearly non-existent.
Political Leaders Raise Concerns
Local Congress leader Sitaram Gop also raised serious concerns about the condition of healthcare services at the CHC. He echoed the allegations made by the family and residents, stressing the absence of essential medical staff.
Gop stated that in cases of delivery complications, timely examination and referral to a better-equipped hospital are crucial. He alleged that failure to follow these basic protocols led to the tragic loss of both mother and child.
Authorities Order Probe, Assure Action
District Civil Surgeon Dr Jujhar Majhi has confirmed that an investigation into the incident has been initiated. He assured that strict action will be taken against those found responsible based on the findings of the probe.
He also acknowledged the concerns regarding infrastructure and staffing, stating that a detailed assessment of the CHC’s facilities will be conducted. As an immediate step, a technician will be deployed to make the ultrasound machine operational.
Demand for Justice
The woman’s family has demanded a high-level inquiry and strict accountability for the alleged negligence. The incident has once again brought attention to the gaps in rural healthcare infrastructure and the urgent need for systemic reforms.
