In a major administrative action, the Jharkhand Health Department has suspended the in-charge medical officer of Rajnagar Community Health Centre in Seraikela district following the death of a woman and her newborn during childbirth.
The move comes after the incident triggered widespread outrage and received significant media attention when the medics conducted the procedure using mobile phones’ flashlights.
An order issued by Joint Secretary Chhavi Ranjan confirmed the immediate suspension of Dr. Shivalal Kunkal, citing serious negligence. The department stated that such lapses would not be tolerated and strict action would be taken against those found responsible.
According to the order, Dr. Kunkal will remain stationed in Chaibasa during the suspension period. He has been directed to mark his attendance daily and ensure that he is not engaged in any other assignment. Compliance with these conditions will determine his eligibility for subsistence allowance.
The case involves Binita Banra, a resident of Hathisiring village in Seraikela district, who was also a community health worker. She had gone to the health centre for delivery but allegedly faced severe mismanagement, which led to the death of both her and her newborn son.
Family members alleged that a power outage occurred during the delivery, forcing medical staff to conduct the procedure using mobile phone flashlights. They also claimed that the facility lacked essential medical equipment and that the attending staff failed to respond promptly to the emergency.
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According to the family, the patient’s condition continued to deteriorate, but she was not referred to a higher medical facility in time. The incident has raised serious concerns about the preparedness and functioning of healthcare services in the region.
Following the incident, relatives and local residents staged protests, demanding strict action against those responsible and adequate compensation for the family. Administrative officials later reached the spot and assured a thorough investigation.
The Health Department noted that all community health centres in the state receive annual funding of Rs 10 lakh under the Chief Minister’s Hospital Maintenance Scheme. Despite this, the incident highlights significant gaps in implementation and oversight.
An inquiry is currently underway, and officials have indicated that further action may be taken against other staff members found responsible.
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