Bhagalpur: A tragic case of medical negligence has come to light from Bihar’s Bhagalpur district, where a young pregnant woman died during an operation carried out at a private clinic by an alleged quack doctor. The incident occurred in the Kahalgaon block and has shocked local residents, once again highlighting the dangers posed by illegal medical practices in rural areas. Family members claim the doctor had no proper training and performed the surgery without basic facilities, leading directly to the woman’s death.
The deceased, Swati Devi, was 23 years old and originally belonged to Modhiya village in Jharkhand. During her pregnancy, she had come to stay at her maternal home in Kharhara village. On Thursday night, when she went into labour, her family rushed her to a nearby private clinic located near Shrimath Sthan in Echari village under the Rasalpur police station area. According to the family, the doctor at the clinic said that a surgical operation was required for safe delivery and demanded Rs 30,000 for the procedure.
Relatives have alleged that the doctor carried out the operation after watching videos on YouTube, with the help of one male and one female assistant. They claim the clinic did not have essential medical equipment, a proper operation theatre or even blood available for emergency use. During the surgery, Swati Devi reportedly suffered heavy bleeding, and her condition worsened rapidly. When the situation went out of control, the doctor allegedly advised shifting her to another hospital, but she died before any transfer could take place. The newborn baby survived and is said to be out of danger.
Following the woman’s death, anger spread quickly in the area. Family members and villagers gathered outside the clinic, placing the body there and demanding strict action against the doctor. The Rasalpur police reached the spot, controlled the situation and sent the body for post-mortem examination. Police officials said a forensic science laboratory team has been informed, while the accused doctor has reportedly been absconding since the incident.
Local residents say the clinic had faced complaints earlier as well, but no strong action was taken, allowing such unsafe practices to continue. The incident has raised serious questions about monitoring by the health department and local administration. In-charge medical officer Pawan Kumar said the department has been informed and an inquiry will be conducted. Police officials added that further action will be taken after the post-mortem report. The grieving family has demanded strict punishment for those responsible, hoping such a tragedy does not happen to any other family in the future.
