In a significant security lapse, a closed hospital in Jharkhand's Dumka district was targeted by thieves who made off with several advanced medical instruments. The incident occurred at a healthcare facility located in Hansdiha, near the Godda-Dumka border.
Theft Discovered During Official Survey
The burglary came to light on Saturday when health worker Vipin Kumar Singh arrived at the premises. He was there to conduct geo-tagging activities on the instructions of the Dumka civil surgeon. Upon arrival, Singh was confronted with a scene of violation: the locks of various hospital departments were found broken.
The hospital, which has remained non-operational for years despite its construction, was immediately reported to the authorities. Dr. Prabha Rani Prasad, the medical officer in charge of the Saraiyahat-based Community Health Centre (CHC), took formal action by lodging a First Information Report (FIR) at the Hansdiha police station on the same day.
Investigation Launched, Local Suspects Questioned
Local police have swiftly initiated an investigation into the matter. Tarachand, the officer in-charge (OC) of Hansdiha police station, confirmed that the probe is ongoing. "Investigation is under way. We have been questioning a few local suspects," stated the OC.
Meanwhile, Dr. Kamleshwar Prasad, the Dumka civil surgeon, informed that the total value of the stolen equipment and other items is currently being evaluated. The loss represents a significant setback for public health infrastructure in the region.
A Hospital's Troubled History
The targeted hospital has a history of unfulfilled potential. It was constructed nearly six years ago using Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds provided by the Lalmatia-based Rajmahal project of the Eastern Coalfields Limited (ECL). Despite its modern facilities, it has never been fully operationalized.
The building saw a brief period of use when it was repurposed as a Covid-19 facility during the 2020-21 pandemic. Following the subsidence of the pandemic crisis, the hospital was once again closed, leaving it vulnerable and unattended until this theft was discovered.
This incident raises serious questions about the security of vital public health assets, especially those lying dormant. It also highlights the urgent need to either operationalize such facilities or implement robust security measures to protect government property from vandalism and theft.
