Patna: The Central Bureau of Investigation has questioned a nurse at Prabhat Memorial Hospital for nearly six hours as part of its investigation into the suspicious death of a National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) aspirant in Patna. Ritu Kumari, a GDA staff member from Jehanabad, appeared before the agency and reportedly provided key details about the circumstances surrounding the student’s admission and treatment.
According to officials familiar with the probe, Kumari alleged that hospital management was aware from the outset that the student had been subjected to a serious incident. She told investigators that the victim was brought to the facility unconscious and that discussions among staff indicated she was being admitted as a survivor of sexual assault. The nurse also claimed that while some doctors initially hesitated to admit the patient, others advocated for immediate treatment.
Kumari further stated that the victim’s family was reassured that medical expenses would not be a concern, with hospital staff attempting to comfort them during the emergency. She also reported visible injuries on the student’s body, including abrasions on the elbows, shoulders and other areas, which contributed to suspicions among medical personnel regarding possible assault.
In her statement, the nurse said that doubts about sexual violence emerged among staff on the day of admission and intensified after medical reports were discussed by junior doctors. While calling for a fair and transparent inquiry, Kumari expressed confidence in the CBI’s investigation but indicated a lack of trust in the local police handling of the case.
Investigators are continuing to examine multiple angles, including the hospital’s response and possible lapses in care. The CBI is expected to question additional hospital staff and management as it seeks to establish a comprehensive timeline and determine accountability in the case.
