A disturbing incident has emerged from the Chetadih area of Giridih district, where a woman, Anjali Devi, is allegedly posing as a ‘Sahia’ (health worker) to exploit pregnant women. The accusation is that she deceives expectant mothers, particularly those from low-income backgrounds seeking care at government facilities, and then redirects them to private hospitals. Once at these private facilities, she reportedly facilitates the extortion of exorbitant fees under the guise of medical treatment. This fraudulent scheme targets vulnerable women, leaving them financially burdened and distressed.
Local residents claim Anjali Devi operates near the Chetadih hospital. Her alleged modus operandi involves approaching pregnant women upon their arrival at the government hospital, gaining their trust by identifying herself as a Sahia, and promising superior care. She then allegedly escorts them to private clinics where inflated medical charges are demanded. This predatory behavior preys on the financial limitations and lack of awareness of these women, causing significant hardship.
Reports suggest that Anjali Devi also runs a hotel near the hospital, from which she allegedly orchestrates these exploitative activities. The entire operation is said to capitalize on the vulnerability and illiteracy of poor women. The community is outraged by these allegations. Villagers and social activists are demanding an impartial investigation by the health department, strict action against the imposter Sahia, and immediate measures to protect pregnant women from such exploitation. If proven true, these claims would highlight serious flaws in the local healthcare system.