In a heartbreaking incident that has sparked outrage across Jharkhand’s Chakradharpur, a poor father was forced to transport his newborn baby’s lifeless body home in a cardboard box due to alleged negligence at a government hospital. The tragedy unfolded at the Chakradharpur Sub-Divisional Hospital, where basic facilities and humanity seemed to fall short for a grieving family from Bangrasai village under Karaiakela police station.
Ram Krishna Hembram, a resident of Bangrasai, admitted his wife Rita Tiriya to the hospital three days ago for delivery. On Saturday, she gave birth to a baby boy, but the infant passed away shortly after. Family members accuse the hospital staff of failing to provide timely care, claiming the child’s life could have been saved with proper attention.
Instead of offering support, hospital authorities allegedly pressured the family to remove the body immediately. When Ram Krishna requested an ambulance to take the body home, none was provided. Left with no choice amid financial hardship, he placed the tiny corpse in a cardboard box and carried it back to his village on foot.
Photos of the distressing scene have gone viral, igniting fury among locals. Villagers gathered, condemning the systemic disregard for poor patients in public hospitals. ‘This is not just negligence; it’s a crime against humanity,’ said one resident, echoing the sentiments of many who demand accountability.
The family and community have appealed to the district administration and health department for a high-level probe, strict action against guilty staff, and compensation for the bereaved parents. They highlight how such lapses erode trust in government healthcare.
Hospital medical in-charge Dr. Anshuman Sharma defended the institution, stating the family never requested assistance for transporting the body. He mentioned that a Mamta vehicle could have been arranged had they asked. Expressing regret, Dr. Sharma urged patients to communicate their needs promptly to ensure help is provided.
This incident underscores deeper issues in rural healthcare infrastructure, where understaffing, lack of ambulances, and callous attitudes compound the suffering of the vulnerable. As investigations loom, the people of Chakradharpur await justice for the innocent life lost and the father’s unimaginable pain.