Protests Erupt in Jamtara Over Maternal and Infant Deaths Amid Allegations of Negligence

Jamtara, August 1: Protests erupted in Jamtara, Jharkhand, led by opposition leader Babulal Marandi, against alleged negligence at the district hospital that resulted in the death of a mother and her newborn. Demonstrators rallied from the hospital to the district collectorate, voicing their concerns over various issues, including health services, employment, education, and corruption.

The incident, which occurred on July 17, involved the deaths of a woman named Reena Devi and her infant, prompting public outrage that led to vandalism and road blockades. Following the unrest, the hospital administration filed a complaint, resulting in an FIR against BJP district president Sumit Sharan, district secretary Kamlesh Mandal, youth wing president Kunal Singh, city president Pradeep Rawat, and several unnamed individuals. Marandi condemned this action as a “tyrannical move” by the government.

During the rally, Marandi criticized the deteriorating health system in Jharkhand, accusing the government of prioritizing its interests over public welfare. He raised concerns about the poor condition of hospitals and the inefficiency of government ambulance services. Allegations of corruption in the tender process were also made, suggesting that benefits were being funneled to those close to the government.

Marandi highlighted the issue of illegal mining and irregularities in the sand, iron, and coal trades, stating that despite the state’s rich mineral resources, the public was not reaping the benefits. He also pointed to alleged discrepancies in the JPSC and JSSC recruitment exams, accusing the government of lacking transparency.

Former MP Sunil Soren accused the administration of biased actions and urged officials to work impartially. Former minister Randhir Singh questioned the state of health services and accused the district administration of operating under pressure.

Sita Soren, a former MLA and BJP candidate from Jamtara, criticized the government’s six-and-a-half-year tenure as a failure, particularly regarding health, employment, and education. She claimed that legal actions were being taken against youth who raised their voices for their demands.

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