Chatra District Orders Probe into Drowning Deaths and Alleged Postmortem Extortion
In a tragic incident in Chatra district, a woman and her two young daughters drowned in a village pond on Sunday, leading to a district-level investigation after the bereaved family alleged that a sweeper at Sadar hospital extorted Rs 5,000 for conducting the postmortem examination. The district administration has swiftly responded by forming a four-member inquiry committee to look into the matter.
Details of the Heartbreaking Incident
According to police reports, Parwa Devi, 28, the wife of Khiru Yadav, went to a pond at Bhojya village with her daughters Geeta Kumari, 8, and Malti Kumari, 6, to wash clothes. The tragedy unfolded when Malti slipped into deeper waters. In a desperate attempt to save her, Parwa and Geeta entered the pond but drowned due to the slippery conditions. Villagers later recovered the bodies, highlighting the perilous nature of the local water bodies.
Family's Allegations and Official Response
A family member, who lodged a complaint with the deputy commissioner, stated, "We were made to run around the hospital campus until the payment was made," accusing a sweeper of illegally collecting money for the postmortem. Chatra Deputy Commissioner Ravi Anand, who took charge just two days ago, ordered an inquiry on Sunday night. He emphasized, "Based on the report, accountability will be fixed and punitive action will be taken including dismissal and lodging of FIR if needed."
Inquiry Committee Formed for Swift Action
The inquiry committee is chaired by Sadar Sub-Divisional Officer Zahur Alam, with members including Civil Surgeon Satyendra Sinha, the deputy superintendent of Sadar hospital, and the hospital manager. The panel has been directed to submit a detailed report within 24 hours. Sinha noted that prima facie, it appears money was collected illegally, but a final report is awaited to confirm the allegations and guide further actions.
This incident underscores broader issues of corruption and safety in rural healthcare and public spaces, prompting calls for stricter oversight and accountability in district administration procedures.
